§ 3. Mr. Cleaverasked the Postmaster-General whether he will consider displaying notices in telephone kiosks drawing attention to the danger to emergency services resulting from acts of vandalism.
§ The Postmaster-General (Mr. Reginald Bevins)Yes, Sir. I am having appropriately worded notices produced for display in telephone kiosks in selected areas. I am very much concerned that some kiosks are put out of action so frequently and I hope these notices will have a good effect.
§ Mr. CleaverIs my right hon. Friend aware that there have been over 1,300 188 cases of vandalism in Birmingham during the last year? Can he say to what extent emergency services have been disrupted?
§ Mr. BevinsI am aware of the situation in Birmingham. Even so, the position there is not as bad as it is in the East End of London and in certain parts of Liverpool. To the best of my knowledge, the interference with emergency services has not been considerable, but the purpose of these notices which will be available in a matter of a few weeks is to remind people that in cases of illness or accident a telephone may be essential to members of their own family.
§ Mr. RossWhile appreciating the right hon. Gentleman's intent, may I ask whether he has any indication or any reason to believe that vandals would stop to read any such notice, or indeed whether it would be an invitation to some of them? Has the right hon. Gentleman considered using other means, such as the television, in schools and on the radio, to put over to these people and to parents the difficulties which might be caused by vandalism?
§ Mr. BevinsThe Post Office has already employed a considerable number of physical safeguards but, on the whole, they have not been effective. We are proceeding on the basis to which I have referred because I believe that even vandals are human beings.