HC Deb 21 November 1968 vol 773 c1517
4. Mr. Costain

asked the Postmaster-General whether he will ensure that a reduction in rental is allowed to telephone subscribers whose telephones remain out of order because of the inability of the Post Office Engineering Department to attend to them.

Mr. Joseph Slater

The question does not normally arise. Eighty per cent. of faults affecting service are cleared the same day as reported, if this is a working day, and 95 per cent. the next working day. Telephone managers have discretion to allow rental rebates for long interruptions.

Mr. Costain

Does the Postmaster-General appreciate that this Question was put down only when these matters had arisen and that if private enterprise charged for a service that it was not able to give it would be criminal? Surely the Post Office must take some responsibility?

Mr. Slater

Customers are not entitled to reductions, but sympathetic consideration is given to any claim that is made.

Mr. Barnett

On the question of rebates, will my hon. Friend consider the case of subscribers who have an incorrect telephone number inserted in a directory and which remains there for some time—which is not only an inconvenience but frequently causes a loss of business? Will he consider compensation in that direction?

Mr. Slater

I take note of my hon. Friend's observations. I will see that they are investigated.