asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs whether he is aware that telephone subscribers are opposed to the 25 per cent. loading on rentals in addition to the extra charge for calls; and, if so, if he will now cease to apply the loading to rentals.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Telephone Rentals.
The recent increase of 25 per cent. over pre-war rates in both telephone rentals and charges was necessary to avoid substantial loss on the working of the telephone service. As the Deputy must be aware there have been much greater advances over pre-war rates in the costs of engineering materials and in wages. It is not possible, therefore, to meet the request in the latter portion of the question, as the total revenue anticipated cannot under present circumstances be reduced.