§ 19. Mr. Dodds-Parkerasked the Postmaster-General what is the capacity currently spare on the Cheltenham Telephone Exchange; in which areas of Cheltenham and Charlton Kings are site conditions delaying the supply of telephone service to prospective subscribers; how many prospective subscribers are currently awaiting service; what is the longest waiting period; and when he expects to make available to all prospective subscribers currently on the Cheltenham waiting list the service enjoyed by others in the district.
§ Mr. Joseph SlaterThere is spare capacity for 2,350 subscribers. Site conditions are causing delay at Hester's Way, Pittville Mount and Harp Hill. Twenty-one people are on the waiting list, and will have service this year. The longest waiting period is 17 months.
§ Mr. Dodds-ParkerIs the Minister aware that the impression left by the debate last December was that all would be clear by April when the exchange facilities were available, but there are still a number of my constituents who are deprived, some being asked to share lines after having had a line of their own for many years?
§ Mr. SlaterI am aware of that in view of the interest shown by the hon. Gentleman in an Adjournment debate and in previous Questions which he has asked. The recent extension of the exchange, together with others which are already planned, should provide adequate capacity to meet future growth, and we do not expect that there will be any waiting list.