§ 85. Sir H. BRITTAINasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the fact that the Pacific Cable Board, the Australian Government, and the Post 515 Office, subject to Treasury consent, have agreed to a reduction in the existing Press cable rate to Australia of 1½d. per word, he will state what is the attitude of the Treasury in this matter?
Mr. GUINNESSThe Press rate has been twice reduced since 1909, and is now 7½d. a word against 2s. 6d. a word for ordinary cables. A proposal for further reduction is now under consideration, but I cannot yet say what the decision will be.
§ Sir H. BRITTAINIn view of the very great importance of facilitating Empire Press communications, will the right hon. Gentleman, seeing that there is this unanimous agreement, try to come to a decision as soon as possible?
Mr. GUINNESSAs my hon. Friend is no doubt aware, there is great congestion on this particular cable at the moment. The proportion of the Press rate compared with the general rate is lower than it used to be, and it is a matter for grave consideration whether, until the cable facilities are increased, as they shortly will be, and wireless facilities are provided, we should be justified in making any change, but we are considering the matter.