§ Mr. Hurdasked the Assistant Postmaster-General how many telephone connections have been made in each of the past two years; how many applications are outstanding; how long it will take to satisfy these at the present rate of progress; how much is to be spent on the extension of the telephone service this year; and what are the handicaps to more rapid progress.
§ Mr. Gammans350,400 telephone connections were made in the year ended 31st March, 1952, and 314,800 last year. At the 31st March, 1953, 427,200 applications were outstanding, but in view of the continuing high level of new demand I cannot say when all these applications will be met. Progress will of course depend on the financial resources available.
As regards the other points I would refer my hon. Friend to the replies I gave to the hon. Member for Anglesey (Mr. C. Hughes) on 20th May, 1953.