HC Deb 23 July 1900 vol 86 c867
SIR EDWARD SASSOON (Hythe)

I bog to ask the Secretary to the Treasury if he would state to the House the composition of the Departmental Committee on the system of Cable Telegraphs of the Empire, the scope, and the terms of its reference.

THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO THE TREASURY (Mr. HANBURY,) Pres- 868 ton

The terms of reference are "To inquire into the present system of telegraphic communication between different parts of the Empire, and to consider in what respects it requires to be supplemented. To investigate the relations between private cable companies and the Imperial and Colonial Governments (including the Government of India), the amount of control at present exercised by these Governments, and the policy which should be pursued by them in future, especially when new concessions are sought. To examine existing rates, to report how far they are fair and reasonable; and, if not, how any reduction should be effected." The Committee will consist of Lord Balfour of Burleigh, the Postmaster General, the Secretary to the Treasury, the Under Secretaries for India and the Colonies, and two members from the Intelligence branches of the Admiralty and the War Office.

SIR EDWARD SASSOON

Will the Committee have power to send for persons and Papers?

MR. HANBURY

Certainly.

SIR EDWARD SASSOON

Will the evidence and Report be printed?

MR. HANBURY

That I cannot say.

MR. SWIFT MACNEILL

Will the hon. Gentleman undertake to supplement the Committee by two gentlemen of common sense?