HC Deb 07 November 1921 vol 148 cc9-10
11. Mr. MILLS

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that there are 100 ex-service cable-workers and 103 civilian workers in that industry registering as unemployed, in addition to many women usually engaged in the same industry, and that there is a shortage of cables on the trade routes and elsewhere; and if he will recommend to the Departments concerned the need for quicker decision as to renewals and development?

The ASSISTANT POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Pike Pease)

I have been asked to answer this question.

Orders for telegraph and telephone cables for renewal and development works are being placed as expeditiously as possible. I hope to be able to invite additional tenders for telephone cable at an early date.

Mr. MILLS

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that one instance quite near home is the cable communication between this country and the Western Isles of Scotland?

Mr. PEASE

I am very sympathetic to the case mentioned by the hon. Member, and I will look into it.