§ 17. Mr. Robert Howarthasked the Postmaster-General why the Blackburn telephone authorities have failed to list Messrs. Woods Limited of Manchester 236 Road, Bolton, accurately either in the alphabetical or classified directories over the period 1964 to 1967; and if he will offer compensation for the loss of business which this has caused.
§ Mr. Joseph SlaterI regret that mistakes were made. The alphabetical directory has been corrected. The classified directory will be corrected at the next issue. My right hon. Friend has already offered a rebate of rental.
§ Mr. HowarthIs my hon. Friend aware that the offer of compensation of a rebate of six months' rental is totally inadequate in view of a story of incompetence going back nearly three years? Is he further aware that it is hoped that the offer of compensation can be considerably stepped up?
§ Mr. SlaterI know the interest which my hon. Friend has taken in this matter. I have gone through all the correspondence and I have to point out that we have done our best to minimise the inconvenience to Messrs. Woods. We have supplied it with change of number cards, stick-on labels for its stationery and we advised directory inquiry centres of the correct number. I cannot agree to go beyond the offer already made.