§ 5. Mr. Snowasked the Postmaster-General on how many occasions within the last five years the telephone system operating on the Burntwood Exchange, Staffordshire, has been out of operation as a result of heavy rain storms.
§ Mr. BevinsIn 1957, 1958, and again on 5th November, 1961, the Burntwood exchange was cut off for a few hours as a result of heavy rain storms. There have also been some occasions when individual subscribers' lines have been affected.
§ Mr. SnowThere is a bad history of technical deficiency in this area. Is the Minister aware that residences and commercial enterprises recently have not had any telephone service for periods up to three days? Will he look into the matter?
§ Mr. BevinsYes, I entirely agree with the hon. Gentleman and I am grateful to him for putting down this Question. The trouble is that the junction cables of this exchange are very vulnerable to heavy rain, but I assure the hon. Gentleman that I am having the whole position technically examined as a matter of urgency.