§ 21. Mr. J. Johnsonasked the Assistant Postmaster-General if he is aware of the frustration caused to those who are on the waiting list for telephones in Rugby, by the delays in providing service; and what steps he is taking to speed up the installation of the new telephone cable for Rugby.
§ Sir E. BoyleThe plans for a comprehensive scheme have been approved: new cables will begin to be installed later this year and my hon. Friend is confident that before long a steady and progressive reduction in the waiting list will take place.
§ Mr. JohnsonWhile thanking the Minister for that reply, may I ask on what basis a telephone is given to a new applicant? Is it a fact that only Members of Parliament, judges and bishops have immediate priority? If the hon. Gentleman does not know the answer, will he ask the Postmaster-General, who 1279 is in another place, because, unfortunately, we cannot get at him?
§ Sir E. BoyleThe hon. Member had better put that Question down.