HC Deb 10 December 1935 vol 307 cc739-40
59. Mr. DAY

asked the Postmaster-General whether his attention has been called to, and has he received any reports on, a new service which has been introduced for the convenience of subscribers on the Paris telephone exchange whereby on the telephone subscriber dialling S.V.P. the operator will switch the caller to an information service which will answer any reasonable questions; and will he consider affording the same service and advantages to London telephone subscribers?

The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Major Tryon)

My attention has been drawn to this new service; and I am making inquiry into its working with a view to considering whether its introduction, in its present or in a modified form, in this country is practicable and desirable. The Paris service is operated by a private company, though access to it is obtained through the Post Office telephone system.

Mr. DAY

Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether the inquiries he has made have led him to believe that there is a satisfactory service in Paris?

Major TRYON

I cannot say whether the service is satisfactory, but as a charge of 2s. 6d. is made for each of these questions, perhaps the hon. Member would find it rather expensive.

Mr. H. G. WILLIAMS

Will the right hon. Gentleman supply one to the hon. Member for Central Southwark (Mr. Day)?