HC Deb 13 July 1967 vol 750 cc987-8
24. Mr. Evelyn King

asked the Postmaster-General by what percentage his Department has increased the price for sending a letter by recorded delivery; and on what date the most recent change was made.

Mr. Joseph Slater

The price was increased by 50 per cent. (from 6d. to 9d.) on 3rd October, 1966. This is the only increase since the service was introduced in 1961.

Mr. King

At a time when others who sell goods or services are being urged to keep prices constant, is not a 50 per cent. increase a quite deplorable example to set?

Mr. Slater

I do not think so, in regard to this particular service. [Laughter.] It must be borne in mind by hon. Members who jeer at the action we have taken that without an increase this service would have been running at a loss in the current financial year.