Mr. New Announces

Postmaster General Harry S. New made two announcements last week:

1) There will be a change in air mail postage rates when the Government-operated routes are taken over by private contractors. The proposed plan would fix a flat rate of ten cents per half ounce or fraction thereof. This basis would greatly reduce charges on long hauls, but would increase the postage for short distances on letters or packages weighing more than half an ounce.

2) When Congress reconvenes it will be asked to authorize the em- ployment of organized armed guards to protect the mails. Such guards would take the place of the marines now on duty. An appropriation of $1,000,000 will also be required to purchase armored mail trucks. President Coolidge has already called for bids on 250 trucks with bullet-proof drivers' cabs.