HC Deb 02 April 1947 vol 435 c333W
Sir W. Darling

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General the capital value of the G.P.O. what method of depreciation on plant and buildings is employed; and what is the value placed on goodwill.

Mr. Burke

The gross capital liability of the Post Office in respect of its assets on 31st March, 1946, was £351,000,000. Provision for accrued depreciation amounted to £127,000,000 leaving a net capital liability of £224,000,000. Depreciation is assessed by the straight-line method for plant and by the annuity method for buildings. Goodwill does not figure in the Post Office accounts.