HC Deb 18 February 1948 vol 447 cc1129-30
5. Mr. Eric Fletcher

asked the Postmaster-General how many operatives are engaged on the Clissold Exchange after 7 p.m.

Mr. Wilfred Paling

The number of operatives (including supervisors) on duty at Clissold Exchange after 7 p.m. on weekdays is 19 up to 8 p.m.; 21 from 8 to 10 p.m.; 16 from 10 to 11 p.m.; 14 from 11 to 11.30 p.m.; and five from 11.30 p.m. onwards. On Saturdays and Sundays the numbers are slightly less.

Mr. Fletcher

Is my right hon. Friend aware that sometimes subscribers on this exchange have to wait as long as 10 minutes before they get a response?

Mr. Paling

That is a consideration which belongs to the next Question.

Mr. H. Hynd

Can my right hon. Friend say how many of the operators are employed full time, and how many are experienced operators, because the delays on this exchange are becoming abominable?

Mr. Paling

I think most of these people are employed full time. I have not the actual figures.

6. Mr. E. Fletcher

asked the Postmaster-General whether he will take steps to improve the telephone service in the Clissold Exchange.

Mr. Wilfred Paling

I can assure my hon. Friend that every effort is being made to improve the service at Clissold Exchange. On the technical side, the switchboard has been thoroughly renovated and extended, and constant attention is being given to the working of the junction lines to other exchanges. On the operating side, the bulk of the staff is of very short service as a result of heavy losses in 1947, but the wastage rate is now declining and the service should steadily improve as the staff gain experience.

Mr. Fletcher

While thanking my right hon. Friend for that reply and for the assurance it contains, may I ask him if he can give any indication when the exchange will be transferred to automatic control?

Mr. Paling

I am afraid not.