§ 13. Dame Irene Wardasked the Postmaster-General what results have emerged from the increased charge for telegrams; and what representations he has received from the staff associations of the Telegraph Department regarding staff redundancy.
Dr. HillInland telegraph traffic has fallen by about 30 per cent. and revenue has increased by about 35 per cent. From the outset the problem of staff redundancy has been handled in full consultation with the staff associations concerned.
§ Dame Irene WardIs my right hon. Friend aware that there is considerable anxiety about staff redundancy? Is he satisfied that the staff are satisfied with the outcome of the discussions?
Dr. HillThe scheme for dealing with redundancy has been agreed with the staff associations concerned, and although the outcome cannot always be welcomed in individual cases, we are proceeding in full consultation and agreement with the staff associations.
§ Mr. W. R. WilliamsWould it not now be better for the Postmaster-General and the Administration to reconsider the decision to increase the charges on telegrams, which make it almost impossible for ordinary people to avail themselves of this very important, indeed essential, service? Is he aware that some of us predicted that there would be this terrific decrease in traffic, with the result to which the hon. Lady has drawn attention?