§ 21. Commander Donaldsonasked the Postmaster-General how many applications for telephones are outstanding in each of the three counties of Roxburgh, 364 Selkirk and Peebles; and how these figures compare with March, 1955.
§ Mr. AlportIn Roxburgh, 119 at 31st December, 1955, as compared with 124 at 31st March, 1955; in Selkirk, thirty-nine, as compared with forty-four; and in Peebles, thirty-nine, as compared with thirty-nine.
§ Commander DonaldsonWhile welcoming this slight reduction, will my hon. Friend take steps to press on with the eradication of the outstanding applications? This applies particularly in rural areas where the amenities are so few and where it is essential, in order to keep people on the land, that there should be telephone and other rural amenities supplied.
§ Mr. AlportMy right hon. Friend is aware of that, but my hon. and gallant Friend will realise that the provision of rural telephones presents particular and special difficulties and must be carried out at a cost higher than is always justified in the circumstances.
§ 22. Commander Donaldsonasked the Postmaster-General how many telephone kiosks have been put into operation in the rural areas of Roxburgh, Selkirk and Peebles during the past twelve months; and what applications are awaiting erection at the present time.
§ Mr. AlportOne, in Roxburghshire, Three are due to be erected this year in Roxburghshire and one in Peeblesshire.