§ 89. Mr. HURDasked the Postmaster-General whether, in order to economise labour in the London telephone, service and also to save subscribers from a multiplicity of pink and white accounts, he mill arrange for an account covering all charges to be presented to each subscriber Once only in each [...]?
§ Mr. PEASEThe question whether an improvement can be effected in the present system of accounting in connection with the telephone service is already under review.
§ 90. Major GLYNasked the Postmaster-General whether the supply of instruments is now adequate to meet the demands upon the telephone service; whether there is still a large number of skilled men, linesmen and mechanics, still serving in the forces whose services are urgently required at home; and whether he is now in a position to review the charges that have been in force for the last two years for the installation of telephones for business and private services?
§ Mr. PEASEA fair supply of instruments to be fitted on subscribers' premises is now coming in, but considerable arrears have to be overtaken in the manufacture and installation of plant and apparatus in Telephone Exchanges, and in the construction of underground lines. A number of skilled men are still absent in the Army, but their demobilisation is, I am assured, proceeding as rapidly as possible. The revision of the current charges for telephone service is at present under consideration, and I hope shortly to be in a position to bring proposals before a Select Committee.