asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the cost of a radio-telegraphic message from a British ship to Gibraltar is at the rate of 1s. 1d. per word, as compared with 8d. per word for a similar message sent to the British Isles; that the land charge for the reception of such message at Gibraltar is 6d. as against 4d.; that an additional charge of 3d. per word is made in respect of alleged currency depreciation; and what is the reason for such excessive charges and, in particular, for the charge for alleged currency depreciation in a British colony?

I am making inquiries into this matter and will communicate with my hon. and learned Friend.