§ 37 and 38. Mr. W. R. Williamsasked the Postmaster-General (1) what he now estimates will be the increase in the number of telephones and exchange connections in 1963–64, 1964–65 and 1965–66 on the basis of present plans, and on the basis of the 4 per cent. investment figures mentioned in the National Economic Development Council's Report, Growth of the United Kingdom Economy to 1966;
(2) whether he is revising his plans to meet the requirements of 4 per cent. growth mentioned in the National Economic Development Council's Report, Growth of the United Kingdom Economy to 1966; and whether he is now seeking authorisation for increased capital investment.
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§ Mr. BevinsI have already revised my plans in view of the Government's adoption of a 4 per cent. growth target. I am now budgeting for capital expenditure on fixed assets in 1963–64 of £164 million, and I am proposing £190 million for 1964–65, and £211 million for 1965–66, all at March, 1963, prices and wages.
On the basis of these figures, I should hope for growth of the system broadly as follows:
Exchange Connections Telephones 1963–64 254,000 442,000 1964–65 310,000 504,000 1965–66 324,000 522,000
§ Mr. W. R. Williamsasked the Postmaster-General what assumptions about growth in national income he made when formulating his present plans for the expansion and modernisation of the telephone service.
§ Mr. BevinsI would refer the hon. Member to my reply to his Oral Questions today.