HC Deb 16 March 1955 vol 538 cc1277-8
17. Mr. Gresham Cooke

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General the number of applicants on the waiting list for telephones in the Borough of Twickenham; at what rate this waiting list is being cleared; and when he expects that the total number of persons on the waiting list will be supplied with telephones.

Sir E. Boyle

One thousand nine hundred and fifty-four applications are outstanding. This year it is hoped to connect about 1,700 telephones, but it is not possible to say when the order list will be cleared, as this depends upon the level of new demand.

Mr. Gresham Cooke

Is my hon. Friend aware that there is dissatisfaction in Twickenham over the telephone position—[HON. MEMBERS: "And elsewhere."]—particularly over the sharing of party lines? Will he ask his hon. Friend the Assistant Postmaster-General to expedite the provision of new lines in the area?

Sir E. Boyle

My hon. Friend is well aware of the state of affairs to which my hon. Friend refers.

Mr. Fernyhough

Can the Minister say how much longer one has to wait for a new telephone than for a new car?

Sir E. Boyle

Not without notice.