asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he is aware that large numbers of postal packets are being taken from the Republic into Northern Ireland for posting there with a view to taking advantage of the lower postage rates; and if he intends to take any action to discourage this practice.

The answer to the first part of the question is no. The second part does not, therefore, arise. I have certain powers, should the need arise, to take action under the Post Office (Evasion of Postage) Act, 1937.