§ 4. Mr. P. Williamsasked the Postmaster-General whether he will consider the possibility of instructing the various telephone area managers to put out to sub-contract work which their area staff are incapable of completing in a reasonable time.
Dr. HillI have considered my hon. Friend's suggestion, but Post Office staff are now capable of carrying out all the work which the available money and stores will allow.
§ Mr. W. R. WilliamsWill the Postmaster-General, contrary to the suggestions contained in this Question, see to it that all work proper to be carried out by established postal engineering grades will continue to be carried out by them, and that the establishment will be adjusted to meet any changed requirements?
Dr. HillI have dealt with the Question as, I think, the House would wish me to, as a practical question. The limiting factors are stores—in the main, stores—at the present time. Speaking practically, the Post Office staff can do the work.
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsDo I take it from what the right hon. Gentleman has just said that the only limiting factor in developing the telephone system now is finance?
§ Mr. P. WilliamsCould my right hon. Friend explain why it is impracticable for a private householder, for example, to have the telephone moved from one room to another by a private contractor? Why could not that be done in that way in future?
Dr. HillWe have a magnificent engineering staff to do this job. While they are able to do it I think no other consideration should apply.