§ 44. Dr. Segalasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that no direct telephonic communication exists between Enugu, the capital of the Eastern Province of Nigeria, and Lagos; and when he intends to see that this is established
§ The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Creech Jones)I am informed that it has not been possible to open the trunk telephone line between Enugu and Lagos owing to the heavy increase of telegraphic traffic necessitating the use of all wires for telegraphic purposes. I cannot say when the Nigerian Government will find it possible to open the line, but part of the equipment ordered by that government to facilitate simultaneous use of wires for speech and telegraphy, which has been on order for a considerable time, has now arrived in Nigeria, and the remainder is expected shortly.
§ Dr. SegalSurely, during the war telephone lines were laid to the extent of a thousand miles or more, and were scarcely used at all. Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that there is an enormous amount of traffic between these two places?
§ Mr. Creech JonesWe all appreciate the importance of developing the service, and the Nigerian Government are doing all that it is possible to do.