HC Deb 25 April 1932 vol 265 cc26-7
44. Captain CAZALET

asked the Postmaster-General what is the charge per word made by his Department for messages sent by short wave to land stations in this country from ships or overseas stations?

Sir K. WOOD

The normal charge for telegrams from ships sent by short waves is l1d. a word, which is made up of 4d. for the ship charge, 6d. for the land wireless station and 1d. for the inland transmission in this country. The charge for telegrams sent by wireless from overseas countries, whether by short waves or not, varies according to distance.

Captain CAZALET

Is it not a fact that the charge is 2d. more in this country than in any other country in the world and the consequence is that we have lost a very large amount of business?

Sir K. WOOD

I think my hon. and gallant Friend has taken one item without referring to others which will probably affect its consideration. I will look into the matter.

Captain CAZALET

Is it not a fact that it is cheaper to send a message from a ship via Norway to this country than direct from a land station in this country?

Sir K. WOOD

I have some other figures which also have a bearing on the matter. In France the charge is 2½d., in Australia 1s. 8d., in China 2s. 9d. and in Bolivia 3s. 9d.