§ 65. Captain DIXONasked the Postmaster-General if he is aware that many people in Belfast have applied for telephones and have been put off owing to the shortage of the necessary supplies; and whether, in view of the unemployment which exists, he will see his way to employ some additional labour in order to expedite the carrying out of the contracts, some of which have been entered into over a year ago?
§ Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSONIt is the case that a number of applicants are awaiting telephone facilities at Belfast. Much difficulty has been experienced in arranging for the necessary accommodation and plant. Additional internal and external plant is now being installed with all possible speed and it is anticipated that within the next few months immediate difficulties will have been solved. There is no shortage of unskilled labour and skilled men have been sent to expedite the completion of this work.