HC Deb 29 April 1930 vol 238 cc27-8
41. Mr. WELLOCK

asked the Postmaster-General the charges for the new telephone service to Australia; and if he can now say whether an early reduction in the charges for the Transatlantic telephone service is contemplated?

Mr. LEES-SMITH

The charge in the service to Australia will be £2 a minute with a minimum of three minutes. As regards the Transatlantic service, I hope to be able to make an announcement shortly.

Mr. WELLOCK

Can the hon. Gentleman say when this service is coming into operation?

Mr. LEES-SMITH

The service will be opened by a conversation between the Prime Minister and the Prime Minister of Australia at half-past eight to-morrow morning.

Sir F. HALL

Will the hon. Gentleman say what steps have been taken to check the time, seeing that there is a charge of £2 a minute?

Mr. LEES-SMITH

There is a minimum of three minutes, so the charge will be at least £6. The usual steps are taken to check the duration of calls.

Sir F. HALL

But is the hon. Gentleman aware that in many cases what is supposed to be a three minutes' conversation is of very short duration, owing to mistakes that occur? [Interruption.] The Postmaster-General may shake his head as often as he likes. Is he aware that very often a call which is supposed to be of three minutes duration lasts only about one and a-half or two minutes? Does he not recognise the importance of this question, in view of the charge of £2 a minute?

Mr. LESLIE BOYCE

Is it anticipated that the charge of £2 a minute will be reduced at an early date if this service proves to be as successful as it is hoped that it will be?

Mr. LEES-SMITH

I could not make any statement on that point at present.