45. Mr. Bob Brownasked the Lord President of the Council if he is aware of the cost of the present free facilities for the changing of cheques at the House of Commons Post Office; and what proposals he has to make.
§ Mr. CrossmanThe cost of present free facilities for the changing of cheques at the House of Commons Post Office amounted to £1,620 in the year 1966–67. The Select Committee on House of Commons (Services), while regarding this service as useful to Members and others attending the House, does not consider that the whole of this charge should fall on public funds. It has therefore recommended to Mr. Speaker that the charge of 6d. per cheque, agreed between the Post Office and the banks, should be passed on whenever a cheque is cashed at the House of Commons Post Office.
Mr. Bob BrownIs my right hon. Friend aware that he has the support of all fair-minded people inside and outside the House for the proposal that hon. Members and servants of the House should pay their way as they would do if they were outside the House?
§ Sir Knox CunninghamWhen will the change take place?
§ Mr. CrossmanI have been waiting and delaying for some weeks now for a Question to be tabled in order to announce this. It can now take place as soon as Mr. Speaker gives permission.
§ Mr. RankinCan my right hon. Friend say what income will accrue to the Post Office from the charge?
§ Mr. CrossmanNo income will accrue to the Post Office, but the taxpayer will cease to pay a subsidy to Members of the House of Commons.