§ 28. Mr. TEMPLETONasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that in the spring of last year telegraph-line poles were erected between Craigellachie and Granton-on-Spey, a distance of about 30 miles; that at present these poles are being replaced with other and stronger poles; and whether he will give an assurance that adequate steps will be taken in future to ensure that such work will be so carried out in the first instance that it will last a reasonable time and avoid waste of public money?
§ The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Sir William Mitchell-Thomson)Owing to the necessity for providing additional circuits it has become necessary progressively to strengthen the route referred to. Last year some 43 poles were erected and this year 30 more have been added. None of the poles erected last year has been scrapped; but it has been necessary, owing to road-widening operations and to improve staying, to alter the position of eight poles. It may be necessary to add some further poles later. I am satisfied that the work is being efficiently performed with due regard to economy.