§ Mr. HAYDAYasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that no improvement in the hours and conditions of caretaker operators has taken place since the transfer of the telephones to the State; and whether, in view of the very 1513W low wages paid, the long hours worked, and the unsatisfactory character of this form of employment, he is prepared to set up a committee to examine the problem with a view to its solution?
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHThere has been no change in the general conditions of service of caretaker operators since 1912, but increases of remuneration have been granted in many cases, while in others the attendance has been reduced by the employment of regular telephonists. The question of improving the method of fixing the remuneration of caretaker operators is already under consideration and I do not think that any further special steps are necessary at the moment.
§ Mr. ROYCEasked the Postmaster-General what progress has been made in the installation of the telephone service for Crowland, orders for which he signed early last year?
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHThe installation of a public call office at Crowland is dependent upon the opening of an exchange at Thorney. I regret that progress with the Thorney scheme has been delayed through a change in the conditions there, but I hope it will be possible to proceed with the work shortly.