HC Deb 22 October 1952 vol 505 cc984-5
7. Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General when the number of outstanding applications for telephones on the Brixton exchange will be reduced.

Mr. Gammans

I expect a progressive reduction to start about the end of this year, when the extension of the exchange equipment will be completed.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

Is the Minister aware that, during the past 12 months, the number of outstanding applications from Brixton has increased by 22 per cent., and that, at the present rate of completion, it will take something like 67 years, without touching any new applications? Can he give me an assurance that Brixton is not being worse treated than any other exchange?

Mr. Gammans

I think the hon. and gallant Gentleman knows that, by the end of this year, there should be a very rapid increase in the number of subscribers to the telephone, and I think that, early next year, he will find that the number of his constituents who will be able to ring him up will be very considerably increased.

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