HC Deb 05 July 1927 vol 208 c1085
30. Sir H. BRITTAIN

asked the Postmaster-General what is the number of men exclusively engaged by his Department in canvassing for the telephone service; and is any payment by results added to their salary?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

As I informed my hon. Friend on 28th June, the canvassing staff consists at present of rather over 400 officers, who are employed chiefly in canvassing for new business, but also share in the work involved by removals and cessations. They receive in addition to salary a commission on new orders obtained as a result of their personal efforts.

Sir H. BRITTAIN

What is the amount of commission on each order obtained?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

Approximately 2s. for a new line and a shilling for an extension.

Sir H. BRITTAIN

Does the right hon. Gentleman think this number is anything like sufficient to deal with the whole country?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

I think in the present state of plant and development it is ample.