§ 3. Mr. Leslie Haleasked the Assistant Postmaster-General whether he is aware that the Post Office expressed the view last year that the large waiting list for telephones in the county borough of Oldham would be substantially wiped out by the middle of 1952; and what effects the recent economy cuts on telephone installations and cables are likely to have with reference to the Oldham programme.
§ The Assistant Postmaster-General (Mr. David Gammans)I hope that, with the additional plant now being provided, we shall be able to meet a high proportion of present outstanding applications by the end of 1952.
§ Mr. HaleWhilst congratulating the Minister on the very able way in which he makes a disagreeable announcement, may I ask if that means that the promise will not be carried out and that Oldham is going to get a lot less than was promised 207 by the Post Office a few months ago? Will that also apply throughout the country?
§ Mr. GammansThe hon. Member made a statement that a promise was made for the middle of 1952, but I can find no trace of that whatever.