HC Deb 15 July 1924 vol 176 cc205-6
59. Sir HARRY BRITTAIN

asked the Postmaster-General whether, in view of the great saving of time gained by the toll telephone system, he can inform the House whether it has been decided to enlarge the area so served?

Mr. HARTSHORN

The capacity of the present toll exchange will not admit of any addition to the number of exchanges included within the toll area; but it is in contemplation to provide a new toll exchange, and the area at present served by the system will then be considerably enlarged, so as to include many additional places within 50 or 60 miles of London.

57. Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLE

asked the Postmaster-General if he can state the results of the wireless telephone experiments which have been carried out in recent time with America?

Mr. HARTSHORN

The results of the experiments at present available are encouraging. They are described in detail in an official notice recently issued, of which I am sending the hon. Member a copy.

60. Sir H. BRITTAIN

asked the Postmaster-General whether, in order to enable Members of Parliament so desirous thoroughly to understand the working of a large modern telephone exchange, he is prepared to issue invitations for visits to be paid to a convenient exchange in the neighbourhood of Westminster?

Mr. HARTSHORN

If any hon. Member who is desirous of visiting an exchange in London will indicate his wishes to me, I will gladly make the necessary arrangements, when a full explanation of the practical working of the system will be given.