asked the Postmaster-General whether, in order to enable farmers to conduct their business to the best advantage, he will consider whether the high telephone rates often charged in rural districts can be reduced?

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply. New rural exchanges are established and rural party lines provided very much below cost price, where the necessary minimum of subscribers is forthcoming. In other cases, the charges are based upon the costs incurred, and in sparsely-populated areas these are necessarily somewhat high. My right hon. Friend regrets that he does not at present see his way to recommend any relaxation of the conditions under which the special rates are applied, in view of the heavy loss which would result.

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of relaxing the rules, having regard to the fact that where the need is greatest the cost is greatest?

I will convey that to my right hon. Friend.