HC Deb 22 July 1953 vol 518 cc356-7
26. Mr. G. Williams

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General if, in order to assist the public and motorists in particular, he will have place names painted on all telephone kiosks.

Mr. Gammans

I assume my hon. Friend is referring only to kiosks in rural areas of which there are approximately 19,000. The suggestion is very attractive and the only reason I cannot accept it is one of cost, which is estimated at an average of 50s. per name panel. The Post Office would however be pleased to co-operate with any local authority which was prepared to bear the cost of painting one or more panels on a kiosk.

Mr. C. I. Orr-Ewing

Will my hon. Friend consider defraying the cost by advertisements in these kiosks, the income from which would offset the rise of wages and other costs in the Post Office?

Mr. Gammans

I think the question of putting names on the kiosks, which is a very practical proposal, is really the responsibility of local authorities, and we should be only too glad to co-operate with local authorities in every possible way.

Mr. G. Williams

Is the Minister aware that the fact that these kiosks are lit up at night and would therefore show place names easily to passing motorists would be of enormous advantage to the motoring community? Whilst thanking him for saying he will co-operate with the local authorities and will give facilities for putting names up, may I ask whether he will undertake to get in touch with the Minister of Transport and ask him if he considers such a scheme would be of benefit to his Department?

Mr. Gammans

I can answer that right away by saying that the Minister of Transport thinks it would be of advantage not only to his Department but also to the public. I am very grateful to my hon. Friend for bringing forward this idea.