HC Deb 10 May 1897 vol 49 cc93-4
MR. GEOFFREY DRAGE (Derby)

I beg to ask the Secretary to the Treasury, as representing the Postmaster General, whether the telephone communication with the Tuskar Light is under the control of the Post Office; whether any application has been received from the Liverpool Steam Shipowners' Association representing the advantage it would be to the shipping trade if vessels passing the Tuskar Light, and signalling, could be promptly reported; and whether arrangements could be made with the Irish Light Commissioners so that the telephone may be used for that purpose?

*MR. HANBURY

The telephone communication with the Tuskar Lighthouse is not under the control of the Post Office. It was provided, and it is maintained, by the Post Office, but at the cost of the Board of Trade. An application from the Liverpool Steam Shipowners' Association to the effect stated by the hon. Member was received by the Postmaster General, and was referred to the Board of Trade. The Postmaster General is informed by the Board of Trade that the whole question of commercial signalling from lighthouses electrically connected with the shore is under consideration.