HC Deb 11 April 1968 vol 762 c292W
19. Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the Postmaster-General if, in view of the hardship which will be caused by increased charges, he will establish a lower rate of rental charge for elderly people who live alone and who have limited means.

Mr. Mason

I have much sympathy with elderly people and others of limited means, but concessionary charges by the Post Office are not an appropriate way of dealing with this problem.

Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the Postmaster-General if he will exempt elderly people living alone who make limited use of telephones from the increases in telephone rentals, installation charges and telephone call charges outlined in Prices and Incomes Report No. 58.

Mr. Mason

I would refer the hon. Gentleman to my reply to his Question earlier today.

Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the Postmaster-General what estimate he has made of the number of people who will dispense with home telephones as a result of the increased charges recently announced.

Mr. Mason

A maximum of 55,000.