§ 67. Lieut.-Colonel HILDERasked the Postmaster-General whether, in the interest of economy, he will introduce the use of reinforced concrete for all new telegraph posts, though the initial cost would be larger, in view of their much greater durability and the fact that their manufacture here would give a great amount of employment now?
§ The ASSISTANT POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Pike Pease)I am advised that the interests of economy would not be served by the use of concrete poles. The initial prices for sizes of poles corresponding to those most largely used by the Post Office are from four to five times higher than the prices for wooden poles. This consideration, combined with the heavier cost of transportation and erection due to the much greater weight, would counterbalance any economy arising from a possibly longer life, even if it can be regarded as established that concrete poles would be more durable than the creosoted wooden poles now used.
§ Lieut.-Colonel HILDERIs my right hon. Friend aware that these are used 2369 extensively in France and other countries, and have they not been a success there?
§ Mr. PEASEIf my hon. and gallant Friend will give me any particulars in regard to their use in other countries I shall be glad to inquire. The information I have given refers to this country.