HC Deb 13 August 1940 vol 364 c632W
Mr. G. Strauss

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that if 557, Foreign Telegrams, is dialled in the evening there is usually 10 to 30 minutes delay before the number is answered, and the explanation given is that the line is so overcrowded; and will he look into this matter with a view to rectification of this delay?

Captain Waterhouse

There has occasionally been some delay in answering calls on the foreign phonogram service due to staffing difficulties, but the delays have not as a rule exceeded one or two minutes. Certain modifications are being made in the staffing arrangements which should improve the service.