HC Deb 27 July 1966 vol 732 c287W
Mr. Costain

asked the Postmaster-General if he is aware of the importance of the telephone to the invalid and the elderly and that the requirement for telephone rentals to be paid 12 months in advance will deprive many of this service; and if he will announce proposals to assist them to retain this service.

Mr. Edward Short

I am aware of the importance of the telephone, but the new condition of the first 12 months rental in advance does not apply to exchange line service existing before 21st July unless the subscriber moves to another address and I see no justification for any special arrangements. I am carrying out an experiment in Manchester for the elderly and invalid to see if a low cost communication system is possible.