HC Deb 27 July 1955 vol 544 cc140-1W
59. Mr. Dance

asked the Postmaster-General when coloured telephone instruments will once more be freely available to subscribers.

Mr. Gammans

Since the war ended we have had to devote all our resources to meeting the very heavy demand for new telephones, which is now running at the rate of over half a million a year. We hope, however, to increase the supply of coloured telephones next year to 100,000, but we shall not be able for some time to divert labour to replacing existing black telephones.

60. Mr. Dance

asked the Postmaster-General what progress has been made with the design and production of a new type of telephone instrument; and whether he will make a statement on the subject.

Mr. Gammans

A new and slightly more efficient telephone is shortly to be given a trial. A new wall telephone will also be available soon.