asked the Secretary of State for Defence what was in his reply of 25 July to the letter sent by the hon. Member for Newham, North-West's letter of 27 June concerning the replacement of Mr. J. B. Knee's war medals which could not have been sent earlier: why this letter was not posted until 29 July; and whether he will expedite such replies in the future.

Every effort is made to ensure that hon. Members receive replies to their inquiries as quickly as possible. Nevertheless, delays occur when in formation has to be recalled from locations outside London. The letter in Question, dated Friday 25 July, left my office that same evening and was taken to the House. If not collected from the Board it would have been posted.