§ 56. Sir W. BRASSasked the Postmaster-General whether, in view of the fact that no operators are to become un- 815 employed as a result of the introduction of the automatic telephones in the London area, he will state what duties the displaced operators will have to perform in the exchanges in lieu of answering the calls?
§ Mr. ATTLEEThe expansion of the telephone system and the wastage among the operating staff will make it possible to absorb in other exchanges operators not required in consequence of the gradual introduction of automatic working.
§ Sir W. BRASSI understand that the inference to be drawn from the last reply is that no operators will be unemployed as a result of the introduction of automatic telephones in the London area, and that they are being employed for other purposes?
§ Mr. ATTLEEYes, but there is a certain wastage in the telephone staff due to marriage, and so forth; therefore, there is no actual turning away of any staff. There may be a slightly lower rate of intake.
§ Sir W. BRASSAm I to understand that the Postmaster-General is recruiting less?