HC Deb 13 July 1900 vol 85 cc1468-9
MR. HENNIKER HEATON

I beg to ask the Secretary to the Treasury, as representing the Postmaster General, what is the amount paid by the National Telephone Company as royalty on their gross receipts last year, and where is this sum to be found set forth in the public accounts.

MR. HANBURY

The amount paid by the National Telephone Company to the Post Office as royalty for the year ended the 31st March, 1900, is £134,115, and this amount will be included in the Finance Accounts (page 23) under the heading "Telegraph Service, Gross Receipts."

MR. HENNIKER HEATON

Is it possible to recognise the item?

MR. HANBURY

Yes; it is clear on page 23.

MR. GIBSON BOWLES

Does the Government propose to conduct opposition to the company in order to extinguish this receipt?

MR. HANBURY

Her Majesty's Government are acting in accordance with the wishes of Parliament, which has decided that there shall be competition.