§ Mr. Milneasked the Postmaster-General what are the reasons for the delay in installing telephones in certain areas of the Blyth constituency; why installation date promises are not being kept: and when he expects installations to keep pace with demand.
§ Mr. BevinsThe delay in installing telephones in some parts of the Blyth constituency is mainly due to a shortage of plant. More exchange equipment is being provided at Shiremoor and new cables are being laid or planned in other parts of the constituency. If the hon. Member has any particular case in mind where a firm promise has been given to an applicant, but not kept, I shall be glad to look into it. I am sorry I cannot forecast when installations will keep pace with demand; this will depend upon the future level of demand and the resources available to me.