HC Deb 13 February 1939 vol 343 cc1370-1
67. Mr. Day

asked the Postmaster-General the approximate loss on the Press telegraph service, as shown on the commercial accounts of the Post Office, for the 12 months ended to the last convenient date?

Sir W. Womersley

The loss on the inland Press telegraph service for the year ended 31st March, 1938, is estimated at about £80,000. This deficit is arrived at after charging against the service a proportionate share of the general expenses of the telegraph service. It does not purport to represent the net saving that would follow the elimination of Press telegrams, which would amount to a lower figure.

Mr. Day

Is the hon. Gentleman considering any early change in the charges?

Sir W. Womersley

The loss on these Press telegrams has fallen during the last four years by more than half, and I do not think it would be in the public interest to make any change.