Manufacturers’ Request On N.I. Toll Circuits

Press, Volume CV, Issue 30964, 21 January 1966, Page 3

Manufacturers’ Request On N.I. Toll Circuits

Members of the Canterbury Manufacturers’ Association understood there was a possibility that the new microwave circuit between Christchurch and the North Island would not be reinstated for up to four months, said the association’s secretary (Mr R. T. Alston) in a letter to the Postmaster-G e n e r a 1 (Mr Scott). “We would like to make the strongest representations to you to endeavour to have the contractors work extended hours to reduce this time to a minimum,” said Mr Alston. “Otherwise the position will become intolerable. “It would be appreciated if you could give us up-to-date information on when your department can have the system reinstated, and if any other circuits could be brought into

use as a temporary measure.” Mr Alston said that it was appreciated that the department did alleviate the toll situation over the Christmas period by temporarily installing a microwave link. It was also understood that it would be withdrawn from service after the Christmas period, retested, and finally reinstated. This was because of technical difficulties and damage occurring to some of the equipment. “We were given an assurance that this would be done promptly, and we could expect relief early in the New Year,” said Mr Alston. “Already the toll position has deteriorated rapidly, there being up to an hour-and-a-half’s delay in calls to the North Island.”