HC Deb 06 May 1959 vol 605 cc381-2
34. Mr. Willey

asked the Postmaster-General what steps he is taking to increase the number of cables from the Sunderland telephone exchange.

Mr. K. Thompson

A new cable is needed to serve the Seaburn Dene Estate. This scheme is in hand and is expected to be completed early next year. Otherwise, the cable network appears to be adequate for the traffic.

35. Mr. Willey

asked the Postmaster-General what plans he has for the extension of the telephone service in Sunderland.

Mr. K. Thompson

The telephone service in Sunderland is generally satisfactory. We expect to provide about 700 telephones during the next twelve months in the Sunderland and Bishopwearmouth exchange areas.

Mr. Wiley

While welcoming that statement, may I ask the hon. Gentleman to keep in touch with the President of the Board of Trade? As he recognises, the Sunderland area is one of exceptional unemployment, and it is up to the various Government Departments to see what they can do to reduce the level of unemployment.

Mr. Thompson

We shall certainly do all we can to see that the telephone service facilities there are adequate.