§ SIR W. WEDDERBURNI beg to ask the Secretary of State for India whether his attention has been drawn to 1428 the minutes of dissent recorded by the Maharaja of Darbhanga and the Hon. Mr. Mehta on the Telegraphic Messages Bill, to the effect that, on account of the high telegraphic rates, the Bill will not, as desired, produce a first rate telegraphic service for India, but will create a monopoly in favour of a few daily newspapers; and whether he will use his influence to obtain a reduction in the telegraphic rates to India.
§ LORD G. HAMILTONI have read the minutes referred to, but their contents seemed to me to be far fetched, though I admit, and am pressing, the advisability of a reduction of the telegraphic rates to India.
§ SIR MANCHERJEE BHOWNAGGREE () Bethnal Green, N. E.I beg to ask the Secretary of State for India whether, considering that a reduction in the rates of telegraphic communication between England and India has for many years past been urged by the chambers of commerce and others interested in commercial relations between the two countries, he will endeavour to bring about the desired result at as early a date as possible.
§ LORD G. HAMILTONThe subject of a reduction of the telegraphic tariff between Europe and India has engaged for some time past my attention with a view to bringing about a reduction of rates.