HC Deb 15 April 1935 vol 300 cc1585-6
16. Mr. T. SMITH

asked the Postmaster-General what was the amount held by him at the beginning of the last financial year, and received by him since, on account of deposits for the installation of telephones; and whether any interest is paid on these deposits?

The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Sir Kingsley Wood)

On the 1st April, 1934, the sum of £2,965,148 was held as telephone subscribers' deposits and a further £130,000 was received up to the 1st October, 1934. Of these sums, however, over £1,500,000 has been refunded to subscribers since the latter date in accordance with the policy I announced in the House on 6th June. No interest is paid on these deposits.

17. Lieut.-Colonel HENEAGE

asked the Postmaster-General what response he has had to his advertisement calling attention to the opportunities for calling a doctor for a sick child when a telephone is installed?

Sir K. WOOD

I am sorry that it is impossible to distinguish, among the new orders for telephone service which are now reaching the Post Office in large numbers, those which are attributable to a particular advertisement.

18. Lieut.-Colonel HENEAGE

asked the Postmaster-General whether he has been able to instal a public call-office in North Somercotes?

Sir K. WOOD

A public call-office has existed in the North Somercotes Post Office for several years, but it has recently been decided to provide a kiosk. The local council was unable to approve the site first proposed for this kiosk; but an alternative site has now been agreed; and I aril arranging for a kiosk to be provided as soon as possible.