HC Deb 05 December 1911 vol 32 cc1225-6

I would add that I propose also to introduce experimentally the system of cheap night telegrams into this country, so as to make fuller use of the telegraph system during hours when it is now idle. The public are likely to use such a facility only to distant places, as the post will naturally be preferred where it is equally serviceable. At the outset the system will be tried between London and Aberdeen and between London and Belfast. The charge will be 6d. for thirty-six words and ½d. for every three words thereafter. The telegrams will be accepted up to midnight at the head offices and will be delivered with the first morning delivery of letters. If the system is found to be of use to the public it will be extended to other places.

Mr. HARRY LAWSON

During which hours will Press telegrams at reduced rates be accepted?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

Press telegrams at reduced rates for transmission to the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, will be accepted at any hours.

Captain MURRAY

Do I understand that night telegrams only operate between London and Aberdeen and not between London and Edinburgh?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

Only between London and Aberdeen and London and Belfast as an experiment to see what use is made of it by the public. If the circumstances justify, it will speedily be extended to other places.

Mr. MITCHELL-THOMSON

Has the cheapening of cable rates between Great Britain and the West Indies and British Guiana also engaged the attention of the Government, and, if so, will the right hon. Gentleman be able later on to make a statement?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

The half-rate plain language telegraph system will extend to, I think, practically all the Crown Colonies.

Mr. CHARLES DUNCAN

At what hour will the night telegrams to Belfast and Aberdeen be accepted?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

Up to midnight at any head office. At local offices in the different parts of London they will have to be handed in earlier. Regulations will very shortly be published on the subject. They can also be sent by telephone or by post.

Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTT

Does Glasgow not afford a better test than Aberdeen?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

The distance to Glasgow is less.