HC Deb 20 December 1974 vol 883 cc701-2W
Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Industry whether he will appoint Professor Sir George Catlin as Chairman of the Post Office Board at an inclusive salary of £2,350 per annum.

Mr. Gregor Mackenzie

A chairman has already been appointed.

Mr. James Lamond

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what steps the Government intend to take to meet the deficits of the Post Office once the compensation provided for under the Statutory Corporations (Financial Provisions) Act 1974 is exhausted; and how it will alleviate the cash flow problems of the industry meanwhile.

Mr. Benn

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Energy, in answer to a Question on 13th December—[Vol. 883, c. 271.]—about the gas and electricity industries' deficits, said that suitable provisions would be made in further legislation to be introduced, but in the meantime arrangements would be made to permit the industries to borrow at short-term rates from the National Loans Fund. Similar provisions will be made to meet the needs of the Post Office.