asked the Postmaster-General how many applications for a telephone are outstanding in Goole, Thorne and Knottingley; and what are the dates of the oldest applications.

Mr. Slater:

Leaving aside orders being met, there were respectively 3, 1 and 20 outstanding applications in the areas served by the Goole, Thorne and Knottingley exchanges at 31st October, 1964. The oldest applications are dated 4th June, 1964, in Goole, 26th September, 1964, in Thorne and 16th January, 1961, in Knottingley. Of these three applications that in Goole will be met in the middle of next year, and those in Thorne and Knottingley within the next three months.

Is my hon. Friend aware that there are local allegations that bookmakers' offices can be supplied with additional telephones without any delay whatever, while normal households and businesses have the experience of a long delay before they can get a telephone? Will he do something to put that right?

Mr. Slater:

If my hon. Friend has any particular case, perhaps he will give us some information about it and we will have the matter investigated.

Does not the Answer which we have just heard indicate that the recent investment programme in telephones is now bearing fruit and that the waiting list has been cut? Should I remind the Postmaster-General—[HON. MEMBERS: "No."]—may I remind—[HON. MEMBERS: "No."]—may I ask for an assurance—[HON. MEMBERS: "Yes."]—that the Postmaster-General will maintain the right priorities in the capital investment programme in the future?