Report on the Post Office

Abstract

THE Report of the Committee appointed “to inquire and report as to whether any changes in the constitution, status or system of organisation of the Post Office would be in the public interest” has now been published (Cmd. 4149. London: H.M. Stationery Office, 9d. net). The Committee, which consisted of Lord Bridgeman (chairman), Lord Plender, and Sir John Cadman, is of opinion that the total transference of all Post Office communication services to a public utility company or statutory corporation is impracticable, and is neither necessary nor desirable. The Committee considers that the main modification in the status of the Post Office which is required is in respect of its relationship to the Exchequer, and it is recommended that the contribution of the Post Office to the Exchequer should be fixed, for the next three years, at £11,500,000 plus 50 per cent of any cash surpluses in excess of that figure, the residue to be available for the improvement and development of Post Office facilities and services.