§ Mr. REMERasked the Postmaster-General whether, in view of the repeated statements that the telephone difficulty is caused by the shortage of materials and that one of the materials short is silk, and also of the denials by Macclesfield and Congleton silk manufacturers that there is any shortage of this silk required, he will appoint a business committee to inquire into the whole question?
1919W
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHThe situation as regards silk is now more favourable; but the past shortages of silk have undoubtedly retarded the production of switchboard cables and other material required for the telephone service. I am satisfied that all possible means have been employed to overcome the difficulties of production and that no advantage would accrue from the appointment of such a committee as the hon. Member suggests.