HC Deb 24 October 1968 vol 770 cc352-3W
Mr. Bagier

asked the Postmaster-General what steps are being taken to improve the trunk telephone service between Sunderland and the London area.

Mr. Joseph Slater

We have taken action in recent months to improve the trunk service between Sunderland and London. Also, plans have been made to expand the system in the early months of 1969. We are keeping a close watch to ensure that satisfactory service is maintained.

Mr. Bagier

and the Postmaster-General what is the average delay experienced by telephone users in the Sunderland area when contacting the continental switchboard in London.

Mr. Joseph Slater

I am sorry, but this information is not available in this form. However, we know from checks we make from time to time that at certain times especially in the busy morning period the delay exceeds the standard which we aim to achieve. This is because of a temporary shortage of switchboards in London. We have extra switchboards on order.