§ 30. Mr. Berryasked the Postmaster-General why so many local calls in the London area recently have been affected by crackling on the line, thereby making conversation almost impossible; and what steps he is taking to put this right.
Mr. BonnIf the hon. Gentleman has any particular cases in mind and will give me details, I will gladly make inquiries.
§ Mr. BerryIs the Minister aware of the many cases there have been in the London area? I cannot specify particular ones, but is he aware that many people have to dial a second time because of this crackling and they incur tremendous cost? Will he look into this as a general matter affecting the whole area?
§ Mr. BennThe crackling on the line to which the hon. Member refers is caused by faults either in the instrument or in the junction and switching gear. We have recently been undertaking an overhaul of the general London junction and switching gear system, and I hope that this will soon be completed.