§ 33. Mr. HURDasked the Postmaster-General what is the present position of the Imperial wireless chain; and whether, as stated by the chairman of the Empire Press Union, the first link is not yet fashioned and may be a dead-end for some years after it is complete?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYThe wireless stations at Leafield (near Oxford) and at Abu Zabal (near Cairo), which are to form the first link of the Imperial wireless chain, will be ready for use before the end of the year. The delay in the completion of the stations has been due mainly to labour difficulties. I do not agree with the statement attributed to the chairman of the Empire Press Union. A Commission of experts has been appointed to consider the design of the other stations recommended by the Imperial Wireless Telegraphy Committee. Pending the construction of these stations arrangements are being made for the further transmission to and from places beyond Egypt of telegrams forwarded by wireless between the Leafield and the Abu Zabal stations. In addition there is a considerable amount of terminal traffic to and from Egypt.
§ Mr. HURDAre any steps whatever in progress between ourselves and Canada in reference to this matter of wireless communication?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYYes, conversations have been going on for some time.
§ Mr. KELLAWAYConversations are first necessary if something practical is to be done.