HC Deb 21 December 1955 vol 547 cc2002-3
20. Mr. G. Jeger

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware of the decision of the Universal Postal Union that books should receive the same postage reductions as newspapers; and whether he will take action to implement this.

Dr. Hill

The Universal Postal Convention relates to rates of postage on articles which are being sent overseas. The overseas rates are not being changed.

Mr. Jeger

Did not the agreement reached in 1952, to which we were a party, by the Universal Postal Union Congress state that there should be reductions on book postage similar to those granted in respect of newspaper postage?

Dr. Hill

The hon. Gentleman is correct, but it refers to overseas and not to inland post. I would tell him that in our overseas post books enjoy the same rate as newspapers and periodicals.

21. Mr. G. Jeger

asked the Postmaster-General whether he will reconsider the proposed increase in postal charges, in view of the representations of the National Book League.

27. Mr. G. Thomas

asked the Postmaster-General what reply he has sent to the protest of the National Book League against his decision to increase the postal charges on the transmission of books and periodicals by post.

Dr. Hill

I have carefully considered the increases in inland postal charges for books and periodicals, approved by this House on 14th November. I have felt bound to conclude that, bearing in mind the loss of some £2 million on the inland printed paper service, the new scale is inevitable.

Mr. Jeger

Does not the Postmaster-General agree that this places an unfair burden on book postage, and that it means that other not so essential matter which is sent through the post gets preferential treatment? Should he not bear in mind that we want to encourage greater dissemination of literature and culture through the post, particularly to rural and backward areas, than occurs at the moment?

Dr. Hill

I am in sympathy with the hon. Gentleman's general sentiment, but £2 million is being lost on the inland printed paper rate. As the House approved the White Paper, the only reasonable course to be followed is to seek to reduce that loss. Even with the proposed increased rates, there is still a loss on the inland postal services.