HC Deb 23 March 1955 vol 538 c2056
10. Mr. Nabarro

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General the latest total of television licences compared with October, 1951; and what steps he is taking to apprehend persons who evade purchase of a television licence.

Sir. E. Boyle

On 28th February, 1955, there were 4,407,393 television licences compared with 1,031,095 on 31st October, 1951. As regards the second part of my hon. Friend's Question, the Post Office relies mainly on television detection cars, extensive publicity, and special local inquiries which include visits to individual houses where records show that no wireless licence is held.

Mr. Nabarro

Does not the fact that the number of television licences has multiplied by more than four times in three and a half years amply demonstrate that Conservative freedom works? Is my hon. Friend satisfied that no extensive evasion is taking place of the payments due for television licences?

Sir. E. Boyle

The answer to the first part of the question is "Yes," Sir. With regard to the second part of the question, I would not like to give an unqualified answer. I have no doubt at all that the measures we are taking are fully adequate.

Mr. Rankin

Is it not the case that Conservative freedom has not so far extended to the cost of the cathode-ray tube which, in spite of the fact that there are more than 4 million licences, is still chained to the 1951 price, and that—

Mr. Speaker

Order.

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