§ 11. Sir G. Nabarroasked the Postmaster-General, in view of the loss of £10 million due to licence-evasion for television and radio, during the last 12 month-period measured, what further steps he is now taking to reduce losses due to this cause.
§ Mr. Joseph SlaterOur latest estimate of the number of television licence evaders is 1¼ million; and of the annual loss of revenue £6¼ million. In accordance with the Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1967, dealers are now notifying the Post Office of all disposals of television sets and this should enable us to continue to apply counter-evasion measures to better effect.
42 and 43. Earl of Dalkeithasked the Postmaster-General (1) what is the annual cost of issuing television and radio receiving licences;
(2) what inquiries he has made into the cost saving potential of schemes for the payment of television and radio receiving licences by banker's order and for the introduction of a three- or five-year licence; and what estimate he has made of the possible cost saving involved.
§ Mr. Joseph SlaterIn 1966–67, the cost of issuing licences, including the cost of keeping records and sending reminders, was £2½ million. Payment may already be made by bankers order; but no saving in costs results. There is no evidence of public demand to pay in advance for licences of more than a year's duration; indeed, I think they would be opposed to it.