HC Deb 29 July 1954 vol 531 cc108-9W
116. Mr. Driberg

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General if he is aware that shortage of labour alone is delaying the provision of telephones for 1,600 would-be subscribers in the Southend telephone area; and what steps he is taking to meet this need.

Mr. Gammans

No. The overriding restriction is finance, which governs the size of our labour force. Over 4,500 telephones were provided in this area in the past 12 months, but the rate of new applications has been exceptionally high and this has added to our difficulties. We are planning for increased expenditure and rate of connection this year.