§ MR. ROYCEasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that the telephone line already constructed between Long Sutton and the aerodrome at Tydd St. Mary comes within 300 yards of the telegraph line connecting Tydd Gate and Sutton St. James; and will he take this proximity into consideration and provide the important agricultural and fruit-growing centre, Sutton St. James, with telephone facilities?
§ Mr. PIKE PEASEA portion of the aerodrome circuit has already been utilised to afford a much-needed improvement of the telephone service in the neighbour-hood, but I am making inquiry as to whether anything can be done for Sutton St. James, and will write to the hon. Member as soon as possible.
§ Sir S. SCOTTasked the Postmaster-General whether a number of ex-Service men who are endeavouring to start or restart business have been refused telephone installations by the Post Office on the ground of lack of plant or congestion of exchanges; and whether, in view of the fact that it is almost impossible to carry on a business in these days without a telephone, he will state what steps he proposes to take to remedy this hardship, and to reform the telephone Department of the Post Office?
§ Mr. PEASEThe provision of telephone installations is not refused in any case in which plant is available, and more exchange telephones have been provided during the present year than during any previous period of equal length. The suspension of construction work during the War has created a serious shortage of plant in certain areas which it will require a considerable time to make good. Exchange accommodation and new underground lines are being provided as rapidly as contracts can be completed, and special efforts are being made to meet the requirements of ex-Service men who are starting in business.