§ Dr. D. Johnsonasked the Postmaster-General if he is aware that, consequent on the recent increase in postal charges 55W for printed papers despatched overseas, the selling price of British books has been increased in countries throughout the British Commonwealth; and whether, in view of the fact that such increases seriously impair the competitive nature of British books in overseas markets, he will, in the national interest, amend the postal regulations accordingly.
§ Mr. MawbyBefore the recent increase in charges the overseas printed paper services were losing £3 million a year, and even now are losing nearly half that amount. These losses have to be made good by users of our other services. My right hon. Friend has carefully reconsidered the position but he still does not see how in fairness he could have allowed the old rates, with the measure of subsidy which they involved, to continue.