§ Mr. WILESasked the Postmaster-General if his attention has been called to the fact that in some cases reduced fees ranging from 1d. to 6d. are charged on trunk calls in connection with which no effective conversation has been enjoyed; and whether he proposes to take any steps to abolish such charges?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEI am glad to say that I am now in a position to abolish the2222W charges to which my hon. Friend refers. I may add that, in connection with that concession, I propose also to introduce a system of following up trunk calls which cannot be effected at the first attempt, owing to inattention on the part of either of the subscribers, or to any other cause which is apparently of temporary duration. Under this system endeavours will be made by the telephonist at short intervals to effect the call so long as the originating subscriber desires that this shall be done, and no charge will be made unless the call is duly effected. I propose to bring the new arrangements into operation on the 1st of next month, without waiting for the general revision of telephone charges which, as the House is aware, I have now under consideration.