HC Deb 22 July 1929 vol 230 cc913-4
80. Mr. MACPHERSON

asked the Postmaster-General when he proposes to extend the rural telephone service to the Ullapool-Lochbroom district of Ross-shire; and whether, in view of the isolation of townships and villages and their distance from medical or other assistance in a case of emergency, he will establish accommodation exchanges and/or call offices at such places as Dundonnell, Strathcannard and Achiltibuie?

The ASSISTANT POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Viant)

A canvass of prospective subscribers in this district is being carried out with a view to ascertaining if there is sufficient demand for telephone facilities to warrant the considerable capital expenditure which would be involved in providing them. The question of the provision of call offices at the villages named is under consideration.

Mr. MACPHERSON

Will the hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of not demanding a large minimum number of subscribers, as at the present time the number is too large in all rural districts?

Mr. VIANT

I might add that the whole question is under consideration.

Mr. LEIF JONES

Will the hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of going ahead of the public demand in this matter?

Mr. VIANT

I am afraid I cannot add anything further to my original reply.