§ 52. Sir F. Medlicottasked the Postmaster-General if he is aware of the heavy burden now falling on the business and professional communities by the present rates of postage, especially for packages between two and four ounces; and how soon he anticipates that still further efficiency and improved methods will enable some reduction to be made in postage rates.
§ Mr. MarplesThe higher charges for postal packets were the fairest we could devise to meet increased costs. We shall spare no effort to improve methods and increase efficiency, but I see no prospect at present of reducing postage rates.
§ Sir F. MedlicottIs not it a fact that from a costing point of view within the Post Office business letters are carried at a profit and private letters at a great loss? Is my right hon. Friend satisfied that the scales are not weighted rather too heavily against the business community?
§ Mr. MarplesYes, I am quite satisfied on that point.