HC Deb 12 May 1965 vol 712 cc516-7
30. Mr. Farr

asked the Postmaster-General when he will seek to introduce a subscriber trunk dialling service to the Republic of Ireland.

Mr. Joseph Slater

Although the number of circuits between this country and the Irish Republic has been increased substantially, the recent rapid increase in traffic still leaves insufficient margin for the introduction of STD. Discussions with the Irish Republic are taking place about this and in the meantime I cannot say when the service will start.

Mr. Farr

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the introduction of such a service would greatly assist British exporters endeavouring to export to the Republic of Ireland? Is he further aware that there are many aggravating delays both to commercial and private business calls between this country and the Republic, which are not at all conducive to stimulating our export trade?

Mr. Slater

Discussions with the Irish Republic about the provision of further circuits to cover their future needs, including the introduction of S.T.D., have been in train for some time, and we hope to reach a conclusion shortly. Also, a number of steps have already been taken in the past year to improve the operator services to Ireland.

Mr. Hector Hughes

Does the Minister realise that there is a particular need for them, having regard to the friendly rivalry in sport between Britain and the Irish Republic, otherwise Eire? Will he take the steps suggested by the hon. Member for Harborough (Mr. Farr) in this Question?

Mr. Slater

I have nothing to add to the reply which I have given to the hon. Member. These talks are still taking place and we are doing everything we can to speed things up.

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