HC Deb 15 February 1971 vol 811 cc1187-8
29. Mr. Harper

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications if he will give a general direction to the Post Office to reduce its hire line charges to voluntary bodies and charitable organisations which broadcast to local hospitals, old people's home and blind persons' institutions.

Mr. Chataway

No, Sir.

Mr. Harper

While thanking the Minister for that forthright reply, may I ask him whether he is aware that it is becoming increasingly difficult to find the sort of money necessary to finance these lines when, for example, it costs £160 a year in the Pontefract area, and, I understand, £300 in Wakefield and £600 in Huddersfield? Would he not agree that these people, who work for nothing, deserve better support than his reply suggests? Would he not further agree that if some of these lines were withdrawn from the hospitals and old people's institutions because of a lack of finance, it would be a tragedy, particularly for those who depend upon such broadcasts?

Mr. Chataway

I do not under-rate the importance of these broadcasts and I have great sympathy with what the hon. Gentleman says, but it would not, in my view, be right to impose welfare obligations on a business organisation like the Post Office.

Mr. Gregor Mackenzie

Would the right hon. Gentleman recognise that this is a growing service welcomed by many people? Perhaps he would think about his answer once again. It was rather curt. Will he give a little more thought to it?

Mr. Chataway

No, Sir. The question asked me to give a general direction, and I replied that I will not. I do not think it would be proper for me to do so. It is a matter for the Post Office.

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

Would my right hon. Friend look at this again? It is an important point. Will he consult his right hon. Friend to see whether some arrangement can be made whereby these voluntary organisations in hospitals, helping blind people and so on, are not charged in this way?

Mr. Chataway

I will certainly draw the attention of the Post Office to what has been said on both sides of the House.