HC Deb 18 June 1947 vol 438 cc220-1W
83. Mr. Peter Freeman

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that an application for a telephone was made by the Royal Gwent Hospital, Workmen's Fund, Newport, in 1942; that the agreement was forwarded in January, 1947, and was duly signed and returned at once; that the telephone has not yet been installed; and, in view of the urgent need, when it will be provided.

Mr. Wilfred Paling

I have been unable to trace any application for telephone service from the Royal Gwent Hospital Workmen's Fund. I understand, however, that an application was made in 1942 by a business man who was appointed secretary to the fund in March, 1947. The work of providing this line was originally held up by lack of spare wires, and more recently by delay in obtaining special cable for crossing power wires. These difficulties have now been overcome, and I hope that the installation will be completed within the next few weeks.

86. Mr. Peter Freeman

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that there is often a delay of over 10 minutes before callers at Newport are able to secure connection with telephone numbers in Cardiff which is only 10 miles away; and if he will take steps to secure greater promptitude for such calls.

Mr. Wilfred Paling

I regret that, owing to shortage of equipment, there is occasionally some delay in answering calls from Newport to Cardiff in periods of heavy traffic. Measures are in hand to provide additional equipment, which I hope will remedy the situation.