asked the Postmaster-General when it is anticipated that the Victoria telephone exchange will be converted from manual to automatic operation; and if, in the meantime, he will see what steps can be taken to improve the existing service?

The work of installing automatic apparatus at the Victoria exchange has begun and completion is expected about the end of 1938. The service deteriorated during the early part of this year partly owing to the pressure arising out of the Coronation and partly from the building operations connected with the conversion to automatic working. The difficulties have now been substantially reduced and additional staff and equipment have been provided. Observations show that the service given by the exchange has been greatly improved and further improvement is anticipated.