HC Deb 17 May 1950 vol 475 cc1196-7
25. Mr. G. B. Craddock

asked the Postmaster-General why it is difficult to establish telephonic communication with the Regional Petroleum Office, Bromyard Avenue, London, W.3; and if he will take steps to improve the position.

Mr. Ness Edwards

The difficulty is due to a seasonal rise in the number of telephone calls to that office. I am consulting my right hon. Friend the Minister of Fuel and Power on the best means of meeting the situation.

Mr. Craddock

Will the right hon. Gentleman treat this as a matter of great urgency in view of the many delays, and also in view of the fact that on Friday, 5th May, the hon. Member for Spelthorne telephoned to this office on two occasions, upon the first of which it took 17 minutes to establish connection and on the second no less than 33 minutes? Will the right hon. Gentleman advise the Minister of Fuel and Power that the quickest way to get over this difficulty is to abolish petrol rationing altogether?

Mr. Ness Edwards

I will certainly draw the attention of my right hon. Friend to this matter, but it is really his responsibility and not mine. He might suggest that hon. Members might write letters instead of telephoning.