HC Deb 17 November 1971 vol 826 cc404-5
19. Mr. Edward Taylor

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications how many acts of vandalism to public telephone kiosks occurred in the most recent annual period for which figures are available.

30. Mr. Dempsey

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications what is his estimate of the number of vandal-proof telephone kiosks in existence at the latest date.

Mr. Chataway

The Post Office tells me there were 152,000 incidents of vandalism in 1970–71. More than 35,000 kiosks have so far been fully or partially fitted with strengthened equipment to resist attack.

Mr. Taylor

As more than half the public depend on public telephone kiosks to contact emergency services, is my right hon. Friend satisfied that the courts are treating such acts of vandalism with sufficient seriousness? Is he prepared to discuss the question with our right hon. Friends to see whether we can have tougher penalties for telephone vandals?

Mr. Chataway

I will certainly consider that.

Mr. Dempsey

Is the Minister aware that large areas of Coatbridge and Aidrie are bereft of public telephone kiosks and that there is no hope in an emergency of contacting police, ambulance or other services? Will he do something to see that some of the vandal-proof kiosks are built in those parts of my constituency?

Mr. Chataway

I will ensure that the Post Office takes note of what the hon. Gentleman has said.