§ 75. Sir H. BRITTAINasked the Postmaster-General by whose authority the variation in telephone calls insisting on the reiteration and prohibiting the duplication of the numeral has been made; and whether any other changes in this direction are anticipated?
§ Mr. HARTSHORNThe variation in the method of passing telephone calls, which is technically known as the "Stile Strip" method, was introduced under my authority and on the recommendation of my technical advisers. The discontinuance of duplication applies only to numerals representing the hundreds and tens, and is for the purpose of assisting the telephonists in the selection of the correct number on the switchboard. Experience shows that this method is effective in reducing the percentage of wrong numbers. At the moment no other changes in this direction are contemplated.
§ Sir H. BRITTAINIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware that several members of his own staff find that the change has not been useful? Is it not easier to say "One, double O, one. Hop," than "One, O, O, one, Hop"?
§ Mr. HARTSHORNI call only say I have been advised that it would tend to greater efficiency and reduction of errors if this method were adopted, and I am assured that that is the result. However, if my hon. Friend can point to any cause for doubt in the matter, I shall be pleased to inquire into it.