§ 29. Sir H. BRITTAINasked the Postmaster-General whether, seeing that Great Britain possesses but 31 telephones per 1,000 inhabitants as compared with Australia's 68, New Zealand's 94, and Canada's 130, he is assured that everything possible is being done to increase the telephone service in this country by every available means?
§ The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Sir William Mitchell-Thomson)I am satisfied that the steps taken by the Post Office to extend and develop the telephone service of Great Britain are designed to secure the best results and that no effort is spared in the pursuance of this object.
§ Sir H. BRITTAINMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman, who is a good business man, whether any big commercial concern would be unable to make a statement as to the amount spent per annum in publicity and canvassing? That is admittedly the case with the Post Office.
§ Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSONI do not think that is so. It is impossible to deal with this matter by means of question and answer. I have already told my hon. Friend that the Contracts Branch is a separate Branch, and I am perfectly prepared to give the figures for that Branch.
§ Colonel DAYIs it not a fact that many people who have signed contracts for telephones even now cannot get them fitted up speedily?
Viscountess ASTORWould it not be better for the Government to advertise increased telephone facilities instead of drink in Post Office publications?