HC Deb 11 July 1969 vol 786 cc331-2W
Mr. Kenneth Baker

asked the Postmaster-General (1) when discussions started with the companies on the question of selling telephone apparatus direct to the public; and which companies have been consulted;

(2) when the last meeting was held with any of the companies to discuss the question of selling telephone apparatus direct to the public.

Mr. Stonehouse

From mid-1968 onwards there have been discussions with manufacturers and others on this and related matters. In the light of the views expressed, I invited the Telecommunication Engineering and Manufacturing Association, which represents major manufacturers of telephone apparatus in the United Kingdom, to join with the Post Office in detailed examination of the scope for widening the range of apparatus available to subscribers in a manner that would be consistent with the essential responsibilities of the Post Office in respect of maintenance and installation. Detailed studies with nominated representatives of the association commenced in May, and the most recent meeting was on 7th July.