§ 75. Sir J. BUTCHERasked the Post master-General the reasons why the Marconi contract for the erection of wire less stations was repudiated by the then Postmaster-General?
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHThe then Post-master-General informed the Marconi Company in January, 1915, that the principal reason which had actuated me Government in arriving at the decision in question was the altered circumstances resulting from the War, and especially from the prospect that hostilities might be prolonged. He stated that, in the opinion of the Government, the present and prospective naval and military requirements, which were the governing factors in determining the scheme for the Imperial wireless chain, could be better met by means other than the construction of stations of the character and in the situations contemplated by the contract. I fear I cannot add to this information.
§ Sir J. BUTCHERWhen this decision was arrived at, was the possibility of obtaining very heavy damages against the Government considered?
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHI am afraid I cannot add anything to what I have already said.