§ 10. Mr. Winnickasked the Postmaster-General what is the position of the waiting list for telephones in the Croydon area; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Joseph Slater1,096 were awaiting service at 31st October not counting orders under inquiry or being met. About 400 should be connected next month, and the remainder during the early months of 1968.
§ Mr. WinnickCan anything be done to speed up the supply of telephones due in 1968? That would be most appreciated in Croydon. Is my hon. Friend aware that I am most grateful for the action taken locally about a compassionate case of mine?
§ Mr. SlaterI am aware of my hon. Friend's interest in this matter from con- 1348 versations which I have had with him about it, but I regret that at the moment there cannot be any acceleration. The shortage of exchange equipment is a national and not a local problem.