asked the Postmaster- General in how many instances the rates paid by his Department to State and charter air lines are up to the agreed inter national standard; and in how many he is paying below the agreed international standard.

There is no agreed international standard governing the rates to be paid by postal administrations to their national air operators. The rates paid to British air carriers for the conveyance of mails are negotiated on a commercial basis.

May I take it that the right hon. Gentleman regards as inaccurate and unreasonable the statement made in the report of B.O.A.C. on this matter?

I have given the facts.