asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what are the detailed instructions issued by his Department to the Post Office in regard, to the examination of private correspondence despatched by British subjects to recipients outside Great Britain.

The examination of overseas mails is carried out by the Customs staff. I would refer the hon. and gallant Gentleman to my reply to the hon. and gallant Member for Knutsford (Lieut.-Colonel Bromley - Davenport) last Tuesday.

Has the Chancellor made any discrimination in the choice of individuals for carrying out this singularly unpleasant snooping duty?

There is no discrimination. All public servants are always prepared to do their duty.

Could the right hon. Gentleman indicate if this has delayed the mails at any time?

No, not so far as we know.