§ 24. Mr. Braineasked the Postmaster-General what steps he is taking to eliminate delays in the operation of the international telex system within his sphere of responsibility.
§ Mr. BevinsI recently took special steps to overcome the staff shortage, and I think they will be effective. More 1382 over, from the end of this year most incoming calls from Europe will be handled automatically. I am sorry the service is not as good as I should like, but I am confident that there will be a marked and progressive improvement.
§ Mr. BraineMy right hon. Friend will be aware, of course, that this service is of enormous and growing importance to merchants and brokers. Will he give an assurance that in the long-term—some time next year, perhaps—it will be adequate to meet the demands and that every possible effort will be made in the interim to provide a reasonably speedy and effective service?
§ Mr. BevinsYes, indeed. I gladly give my hon. Friend that assurance.