MP Wraps up Christmas Post Deal
Tuesday 20th November 2007
Des Browne MP has announced that families of soldiers fighting in Afghanistan and Iraq are to continue getting free parcel post.
A deal between the Ministry of Defence and Royal Mail was due to run out next month however the service is now to be extended beyond Christmas.
Kilmarnock and Loudoun MP, Des Browne MP said:
"The introduction of free post in the summer has been a real success with both families and service personnel, and I am just delighted that we have been able to come to an agreement with Royal Mail that will ensure the continuation of this valued service. I am very grateful to Royal Mail for their support for our troops many of whom have family in Kilmarnock and Loudoun".
Over the past few weeks, in the run up to Christmas, around 100,000 parcels a week have been sent free of postage to around 14,000 frontline personnel, providing them with gifts, non-perishable food items and home comforts.
Under the new deal, the costs of continuing the free parcel scheme will be shared jointly by Royal Mail and the BFPO. Relatives and friends can take parcels weighing up to two kilograms to any of the UK's 14,150 Post Office branches for onward posting to troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as Royal Navy ships in the region.
