§ 11. Mr. Anthony Fellasked the Assistant Postmaster-General to what extent the recent rise in the Post Office salaries and wages bill is responsible for the increase in postal and telegraphic charges.
§ Mr. GammansThe estimated cost in a full year of increases in salaries and wages announced during 1950–52 is about £28 million. The consequent rise in expenditure is the main reason why it has become necessary to increase Post Office tariffs.
§ Mr. FellCan my hon. Friend assure the House that this increase in wages will not decrease the commercial surplus?
§ Mr. GammansI am afraid that the commercial surplus for the next year will be less than it has been for 25 years.
§ Mr. C. R. HobsonIs not that answer in contradiction to the statement that the hon. Gentleman made on Monday, when, in answer to a specific Question, he stated that the surplus on the commercial accounts would be reduced from £25 million to £3 million for 1951–52?
§ Mr. GammansThere is no contradiction whatever. I was asked bow much the increases in salaries meant to the Post Office Bill generally, and I have given the answer.