HC Deb 12 May 1971 vol 817 cc352-3
4. Dr. Gilbert

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications if he will issue a general direction to the Post Office that they seek to install public telephones on all station platforms.

Mr. Chataway

No, Sir. This would not be a suitable subject for a general direction.

Dr. Gilbert

That is the second disappointing reply we have had on this subject. As the Minister will not do anything to try to get us telephones on trains, will he get them on railway station platforms where we are equally the prisoners of British Rail? There are no telephones on the platforms at Euston. At Birmingham they are on the right side of the ticket collector, but a long way from the platforms. At many stations they are even outside the premises.

Mr. Chataway

I am sorry to cause disappointment to the hon. Gentleman, but I should be abusing my powers under the 1969 Act if I were to issue general directions on the subject.

Mr. Money

In his discussions on this subject with British Rail, will my right hon. Friend stress the special needs of the disabled?

Mr. Chataway

I am sure that the Post Office, which has responsibility in this matter, will take account of what my hon. Friend has said.