§ Mr. HURDasked the Postmaster-General whether there has been any change of policy in assessing charges for telephones in farmhouses which are occupied as private residences only; if not, why are some farmers, as, for instance, in the Marlborough area, who have been regarded as private users since 2267W 1907, now being called upon to pay at the higher business rate; and whether he will discontinue demands which are calculated to thwart the desire of the Post Office to encourage telephone business in agricultural areas?
§ Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSONFarmers, like subscribers engaged in other businesses, are charged at the trade rate, but persons who occupy farm houses as private residences and are not engaged in farming or other business are provided with service at the residential rate. There has been no change of policy in this matter. If my hon. Friend will let me know the cases he has in mind I will have inquiry made.