HC Deb 13 December 1926 vol 200 cc2547-8
29. Colonel APPLIN

asked the Postmaster-General whether his attention has been called to the new method of printing the names of telephone exchanges in the London Telephone Directory, in which the first three letters are printed in block capitals; if he is aware that this renders the legibility of the name of the exchange obscure; and whether he will consider the advisability of reverting to the usual method of one type?

Viscount WOLMER

The printing of these letters in capitals has been adopted in view of the forthcoming gradual introduction of an automatic system for London. The necessity of this particular method of printing will be appreciated as soon as the automatic system is in operation.

Colonel DAY

When will the automatic service be introduced?

Viscount WOLMER

It will be introduced next year.

Colonel DAY

About when? Will the public have an opportunity of receiving notice?

Viscount WOLMER

We hope to open the Hofborn Exchange next summer.

Colonel APPLIN

Would it not be possible to revert to the old printing until such time as the automatic telephones are installed?

Viscount WOLMER

When the orders for the printing of this issue of the Directory were given it was hoped that the Hofborn Exchange would be ready before the next issue was printed. Now that is not possible. That is why the Directory has been printed in this way.