HC Deb 21 December 1955 vol 547 cc2004-5
18. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Postmaster-General what representations he has received from, or on behalf of, blind persons or from interested organisations in respect of a decrease in the charge for domestic telephone installations used by blind persons.

Dr. Hill

About a dozen letters have been received. Much as I sympathise with blind persons I could not justify charging them less than the standard price for their telephone service.

Mr. Sorensen

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is some reduction in licence fees for wireless for the blind? What is the difference between that and my proposal?

Dr. Hill

There is, of course, a reduction in the composite licence fee and a free sound licence for the blind. Also, there is a reduction in postal costs for braille books. However, any step in the direction which the hon. Member suggests would open the door wide to many other claims of equal, or nearly equal, validity, and would raise grave difficulties for the Post Office.