§ SIR EDWARD WATKINasked the Postmaster General whether any steps had yet been taken or decided upon in reference to laying a submarine cable between the British Atlantic fortress of Bermuda and the British fortress of Halifax; and, whether it was intended to restore direct postal communication by British ships between Halifax and Bermuda; and, if not, in either or both oases, what are the reasons?
§ *MR. RAIKESIn reply to the hon. Member, I have to state that the Government 389 have decided to lay a cable from Halifax to Bermuda. According to information which I have received from my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies, the Legislature of Jamaica has agreed to grant a subsidy to a line of steamers running between Halifax and Kingston, and calling regularly at Turks Islands and Bermuda. I understand that the service commenced last October.