§ 73. Mr. MILLSasked the Postmaster-General if he is aware that there was an inquiry into the New York telephones at the end of last year; and whether the business men of New York offered to pay higher telephone rates if they could secure an efficient system?
§ The ASSISTANT POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Pike Pease)I am informed that the inquiry into the New York Telephone rates is not yet completed. The answer to the second paragraph is in the affirmative, judging from statements which have appeared in the Press.
§ Mr. MILLSasked the Postmaster-General what, under the latest rates arranged, it costs in London and New York, respectively, for telephone subscribers to make 5,000 or 10,000 calls a year; and if he will state what area in square miles is covered by the respective payments?
§ Mr. PEASEThe cost of 5,000 calls a year in London under the new rates will be £38 16s. 3d.; of 10,000 calls £68 10s. The cost to a New York subscriber under the proposed rates will be £52 0s. 3d. for 5,000 and £93 2s. for 10,000. Subscribers in the business centres in London will be able to communicate without further charge over 314 square miles, and in New York over 163 square miles.
§ Mr. MILLSWill the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of having a publicity department in order to allay the fears of the traders?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ARCHER-SHEECan the right hon. Gentleman say whether the prices for New York telephone calls were taken at par of exchange or at present rates?