HC Deb 10 October 1946 vol 427 cc352-3
43. Wing-Commander Roland Robinson

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General if he will make a statement about his recent visit to the U.S.A. to study the U.S. telecommunications system; and whether it is proposed to make any changes in the British telecommunications system as a result of his investigations.

Mr. Burke

In company with the Deputy Engineer-in-Chief of the Post Office, I visited a number of cities in the U.S.A. and Canada and we saw demonstrations of the latest operating practices and technical developments. In general, these matters have been progressing on parallel lines in this country and in North America. We were shown some interesting experiments, which will be closely watched by the Post Office engineers, but so far as can be foreseen no major changes are likely to be made in the British telecommunications system as a result of our visit. I will send the hon. Member further details if he desires.

Viscount Hinchingbrooke

Has the hon. Gentleman studied the American system of automatic trunk telephone communication, and is he proposing to introduce a like system in this country?

Mr. Burke

Yes, Sir. That is being done.