§ 43. Sir Percy Hurdasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport when amplifiers will be introduced at important stations on the London Underground system; and whether steps will be taken similar to those in successful use among women in the balloon-barrage and anti-aircraft sections of the Army to fortify the voices of women porters and thus enable passengers to identify all stations as the train passes?
§ Colonel LlewellinNo, Sir, I am already fully acquainted with the announcer system and I am informed that consideration is being given to the introduction of amplifiers at certain important surface stations on the Underground system.
§ Sir P. HurdThe right hon. and gallant Gentleman told me that last week. Will he tell me when these amplifiers will be installed?
§ Colonel LlewellinI am afraid I cannot do so at the moment.
§ Sir P. HurdWhat does "consideration" mean?
§ Colonel LlewellinThis matter is, of course, in the hands of the London Passenger Transport Board, and I have given the information I have received from them. They are going into the question of whether these amplifiers can be introduced. As I informed my hon. Friend before, there is difficulty in the manufacture of such articles in view of the need for providing for the requirements of aircraft and other war necessities.
§ Mr. ThorneCan we not make more use of the human mouth as an amplifier by asking the porters to call out the names of the stations more clearly?
§ Colonel LlewellinI understand that it is to announce the names of the stations louder that the amplifiers are being installed, if they are installed.
§ Colonel Sir Charles MacAndrewWhen amplifiers are installed, will care be taken to see that those using them speak correctly?