§ 12. Mr. Shepherdasked the Postmaster-General if he is aware that the Arthur Murray School of Dancing is using the telephone system indiscriminately to call individuals telling them that they have been awarded a free dancing lesson, and that, as a consequence, a number of individuals have been pressed into signing contracts for large sums of money when they have attended the school; and whether he will bring to an end this practice.
§ Mr. BevinsI am advised that such a use of the telephone does not constitute an offence under the Post Office Act or a breach of the Telephone Regulations: in my view, it would not be appropriate for me to attempt to impose any restriction. As my hon. Friend will realise, the latter part of the Question is not within my province.
§ Mr. ShepherdDoes not my right hon. Friend think it rather unfortunate that when newspapers try to clean up their own advertising side and refuse this advertising his Department should facilitate this importuning of the public?
§ Mr. BevinsThat is a matter of opinion, but the fact of the matter is that I have no legal powers whatever to interfere in a matter of this sort.