§ 121. Sir Clive Bossomasked the Postmaster-General whether any proportion of a television or radio licence is refunded if the holder surrenders the licence before its period has expired because he no longer intends or is no longer able to use a television or radio; and whether such refunds are made in the case of car radio licences.
§ Mr. Edward ShortNo, sir. With 16 million licences in force it would add substantially to the cost of collection if I were to vary the fee according to the extent to which the licence was used. The increased cost and the loss of revenue would have to be made good by an increase in licence fees.
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§ 123. Mr. Blenkinsopasked the Postmaster-General what action he proposes to take to secure payment of television and wireless licences.
§ 124. Mr. Leadbitterasked the Postmaster-General what steps he has taken to ensure that all purchasers of television sets have a licence.
§ Mr. Edward ShortI am tightening my Department's procedures for enforcing the licensing of broadcast receiving sets. But these measures will not be enough, and I am therefore discussing with the various trade associations concerned ways of enlisting their members' help. I am also considering a sharp increase in the maximum fines which the Courts may impose.