§ 3. Dr. Strossasked the Assistant Postmaster-General to give the number of telephone subscribers in Stoke-on-Trent who share a line with another person; and the number of applications for telephone service outstanding at present and a year ago.
§ Mr. GammansFive hundred and ninety subscribers in Stoke-on-Trent share telephone lines. There were 1,782 outstanding applications for telephone service at the end of 1951 and 1,759 at the end of 1952. There have been 759 new applications during the year.
§ Dr. StrossCould the Minister say whether it is lack of materials or lack of manpower which prevents further extension of the service and what are the prospects for this year?
§ Mr. GammansIt is the general limitation on capital expenditure and shortage of trained labour.