Mr. ALAN SYKESasked the Postmaster-General whether the Government will continue to pay local rates on the National Telephone Company's undertaking after the transfer of the same to the Post Office, or alternatively, to pay an equivalent contribution in lieu thereof, based upon the annual valuation as appearing in the valuation list?
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELThe Government have considered the matter; and, as I have already stated in reply to earlier questions, they are prepared to make some contribution in lieu of rates on the buildings and plant to be acquired, but the precise basis of the contribution has not yet been settled. Some delay has occurred owing to the necessity of awaiting certain return of assessments which the National Telephone Company is furnishing.