HC Deb 19 December 1928 vol 223 c3013
60. Mr. WELLOCK

asked the Postmaster-General the total capital expenditure on the beam wireless system in the possession and control of his Department?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

The total capital cost to the Post Office of the four Imperial beam wireless services was approximately £242,200. I should perhaps add that, as the hon. Member is doubtless aware, there is an annual royalty payable to the Marconi Company so long as any of their patents are employed in the stations.

Mr. WELLOCK

Is that the total cost of the beam service?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

The total capital cost.

Mr. MALONE

Is it a fact that some of these stations are already let to the Marconi Company for wireless telephony experiments, and, if so, is any rental being charged?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

We are allowing the Marconi Company to conduct certain experiments at the Bridgwater Station.

Mr. HARDIE

And the turnover in the first year of the experiment is greater than all the capital that is going to be sunk in it.