Capital Expenditure

HC Deb 27 January 1954 vol 522 c1736

34. Mr. Erroll

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General the extent of the present restrictions on capital expenditure by the Post Office.

Mr. Gammans

This Question cannot be answered in terms of a figure. The limitation is what the nation can afford for development of Post Office services, having regard to other claims on the national resources. I am glad to say that, for next year, capital investment has been increased.

Mr. Erroll

If there is no figure, how can the extent of the restriction be known, and, if the extent of the restriction is not known, is it fair for the Post Office to use it as a frequent argument for not supplying telephone services?

Mr. Gammans

I think I have answered what the hon. Gentleman asked. We can only afford on the Post Office services generally what the country can afford generally.