HC Deb 16 June 1967 vol 748 cc147-8W
Dr. Bennett

asked the Postmaster-General (1) on what basis he will charge the use of input/output terminals for the data processing service;

(2) on what basis charges will be made for computer to computer lines, and the use of additional computers other than the main one, for the data processing service.

Mr. Edward Short

Detailed charging systems for data processing have not yet been worked out. The charges, when fixed, will be calculated to achieve the financial target which will be given to the service. Overheads and direct costs will be allocated by the same principles as those already used in the other main Post Office services. Charges for data transmission will be those in force under the relevant existing legislation.

Mr. Webster

asked the Postmaster-General (1) on what basis he will charge overheads and indirect costs to the computer data processing service;

(2) on what basis he will charge for the amount of peripheral storage used, and the time for which it is used for the data processing service.

Mr. J. H. Osborn

asked the Postmaster-General (1) on what basis he will change the use of transmission lines between terminal equipment and the nearest computer for the data processing service;

(2) on what basis he will charge the use of central processer time for the data processing service.

Mr. Edward Short

Detailed charging systems for data processing have not yet been worked out. The charges, when fixed, will be calculated to achieve the financial target which will be given to the service. Overheads and direct costs will be allocated by the same principles as those already used in the other main Post Office services. Charges for data transmission will be those in force under the relevant existing legislation.