asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs which telephone exchanges will be converted to the automatic systems within the next three years, and the approximate date for each such change.

As the reply is in the form of a tabular statement, I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to circulate it with the Official Report.

Following is the statement:—

TELEPHONE Exchanges likely to be converted to automatic working in each of the three years ending the 30th November, 1961.

NOTE.— Closer approximate estimation than the year of conversion is not possible for the second and third years.