HC Deb 20 May 1930 vol 239 cc208-9
40. Sir GEORGE PENNY

asked the Postmaster-General whether he can arrange for the statement of fees for trunk and toll calls to be rendered to subscribers monthly so that the amounts charged can be more easily checked; and whether fuller details could be supplied in the statements instead of just the date and amount as at present given?

Mr. LEES-SMITH

Telephone subscribers may have their accounts for trunk and toll calls and phonograms rendered monthly on payment of a small charge of 1s. a quarter; and detailed information in respect of such calls and telegrams is also supplied at a small charge. The charges made are necessary to cover the extra work involved.

Sir G. PENNY

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there is great dissatisfaction among subscribers at being charged more for toll and trunk calls than the time actually used on the telephone, and that when they do not get their accounts for three months there is no chance of checking them?

Mr. LEES-SMITH

I have explained that they can get their accounts monthly by the payment of a very small charge.

Sir G. PENNY

Is it right that an additional charge should be made, seeing that so much profit is made by the Post Office in giving service to subscribers?

Mr. LEES-SMITH

Even if a profit be made, I do not see why we should not make an extra charge for the work which is involved by the extra accounting. The Post Office is an efficient institution and wishes to make a profit.

Sir W. DAVISON

rose

Mr. SPEAKER

We cannot spend so much time on each question.