That's what sounds strange now ... not every kid had access to a record player in those post war days ... I was 14 before I could afford a tape recorder, bought with money earned on my paper round ... it cost £14 and I was earning at the rate of 5 shillings a week ... so a full year's wages
I think whether you get an Indian, Welsh or Canadian person depends on what time of day you call ... in my experience the Canadians look after business well
Your insurance company needs to know which is the valid plate at all times otherwise your insurance is void (and they will probably charge for changing the plate after you first insure the car).
Best to get it all sorted by the vendor before you complete the deal then you can exchange full payment and drive away a fully insured road legal car.
IMHO