Free post for families of British troops

Updated 20.45 Mon Aug 20 2007
Keywords: troops, sir richard dannatt, allan leighton, iraq, royal mail, afghanistan

British troops in Iraq and Afghanistan will be allowed to receive free post from their families.

Royal Mail chairman Allan Leighton said the postal service will make it possible to post parcels without charge until Christmas.

"Royal Mail wants to see our frontline troops get as much support as possible" - Allan Leighton

He also said the Royal Mail will be "pleased" to review with the Ministry of Defence how the arrangements could be continued after Christmas.

Mr Leighton said: "Royal Mail wants to see our frontline troops get as much support as possible.

"Royal Mail's postmen are already serving in many military bases, including in Afghanistan, helping provide postal services to the armed forces and we know how vitally important it is for frontline troops to get parcels from their loved ones at home."

The announcement came after the head of the Army, General Sir Richard Dannatt, publicly appealed for the Royal Mail to drop the charges during a visit to troops in Afghanistan.

Sir Richard said: "I am delighted by the support shown by Royal Mail, and extremely grateful. This decision to provide a free parcel service to troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan will mean a great deal to our soldiers and to their families."

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