§ *SIR EDWARD SASSOON () HytheI beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the arrangements for the construction and laying of the Pacific Cable are still in abeyance; whether he is aware that the price of the metal for cable manufacture is rapidly rising, and the supply of gutta percha steadily diminishing; that this delay is causing widespread anxiety in Canada: and if he would use his good offices to accelerate the taking in hand of the work.
§ MR. J. CHAMBERLAINThe question of the arrangements for constructing and laying the Pacific Cable is under the consideration of a Committee, on which the Imperial Government and the colonies interested are proportionately represented, and Her Majesty's Government understand that the deliberations of the Committee will soon be completed. The Committee is aware of the state of the market for cable materials.