77. Mr. E. P. Smithasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the L.P.T.B has increased the rate for the display of theatre posters by approximately 150 per cent over the prewar figure; and if he will arrange for the reduction of these charges, having regard to the fact that the Treasury is interested in the success of the entertainment industry.
§ Mr. BarnesThe Board's present rates for the display of theatre posters are, I understand, on the same level as those applying to other advertisers and to other branches of the entertainment industry.
292 I do not feel I should be justified in intervening in the matter.
Mr. SmithDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise that his reply will cause a look of dismay to spread over the features of the Chancellor of the Exchequer?