§ Mr. Stratton Millsasked the Postmaster-General what damage has been done to the telephone service in Northern Ireland as a result of the recent severe weather; what steps are being taken to repair the damage; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BevinsThe recent snowstorms caused extensive damage and interruption to the telephone service in Northern Ireland. Over 5,400 subscribers' lines were reported out of order; for a time some exchanges were cut off, and at many others the power supplies were temporarily interrupted. By mid-day 13th February over 3,000 lines had been repaired. I should like to pay my tribute to the sympathetic understanding shown by the public, and also to all the staff who have striven so hard to keep the service going in such difficult circumstances.