asked the Assistant Postmaster-General what losses he estimates would be incurred yearly by operating a system which permits letters carrying a ½d. stamp, posted before 1 p.m., to be accepted for the second delivery on the following day.

The estimated loss of revenue would be about £8 million.

Could the hon. Gentleman say if that is a net loss, or does it take into account any gains which might accrue from the adoption of this system?

The estimated loss is a net loss.