§ 30. Sir J. Mellorasked the Postmaster-General whether, in view of the proved usefulness in present circumstances of the priority telegram service at an extra charge of 6d., he will reconsider providing a priority telephone service for the public at an additional rate?
§ Captain WaterhouseThe question of providing a priority telephone service for the public at an additional charge has been carefully examined, but I am satisfied that such a service would not be in the best national interests under war conditions.
§ Sir J. MellorIn view of the fact that after 7 o'clock at night there is often an indefinite delay in calls being put through, has my hon. and gallant Friend had full regard to the difficulties of those people who sometimes have exceptionally urgent calls to put through?
§ Captain WaterhouseYes, Sir, but many of the longest delays are themselves due to the number of priority calls already put through, and if you multiply these calls, the ordinary caller will have no service at all.