HC Deb 11 July 1890 vol 346 c1576

(12.8.) Motion made, and Question proposed, That (he Contract dated the 16th day of May, 1890, with the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company, for the conveyance of mails to the West Indies, be approved."—(Mr. Secretary Jackson.)

MR. T. M. HEALY

I think we are entitled to some explanation of this.

*THE SECRETARY TO THE TREASURY (Mr. JACKSON, Leeds, N.)

The new contract provides for an accelerated service, and provides for alternative port of call and for a diminished payment of £5,000 a year. It has been submitted to all the Colonies concerned, and has been approved by them.

(12.9.) MR. CONYBEARE (Cornwall, Camborne)

I should like to ask the right hon. Gentleman what is the rate of steaming contracted for; whether the contract provides for the acceleration of steaming under new and improved machinery, and how long the contract is to last?

*(12.10.) MR. JACKSON

The minimum rate provided for is 13 knots an hour on the main line. Attention has been paid to the points he has raised. I would point out that the best security we can have is that this is an important Company, working in competition with other companies, and that it is to its own interest that the service should ha efficient. Under the late contract the Company was at the end performing the service in less time than the contract specified. I have no doubt that they will keep pace with the times, and will perform the contract even in less time than is specified.

Question put, and agreed to.

House adjourned at a quarter after Twelve o'clock, ti11 Monday next.

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