§ 22. Dr. Kingasked the Assistant Postmaster-General how many new telephones were installed in each of the years 1951, 1952 and 1953.
§ Mr. GammansThe figures to 30th September of each year are: 1951, 344,000; 1952, 324,000; 1953, 346,000; 1954, 395,000. This 1954 figure is a record, but we plan a substantial further increase next year.
§ Dr. KingIs the Minister aware that these figures show an increase in production and productivity which compare with those of any other industry in the country and reflect great credit on the highly-skilled engineers who serve him?
§ Mr. GammansI think they do. The difficulty about telephones today is the abnormal demand, about which the hon. Member will be as pleased as I am, for it is a reflection of the general prosperity of the country.
§ Mr. W. R. WilliamsWill the Assistant Postmaster-General see that some of this increased production is applied to Audenshaw and Denton, where nothing seems to be happening?