§ 42. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Postmaster-General what progress has been made in the establishment of the Beam wireless system between England and Australia; whether successful trials have yet taken place; what stations are being fitted in England and Australia, respectively, for the exchange of messages; and when he expects to be able to commence a regular service?
§ Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSONThe Beam wireless stations erected in this country for the Australian service have passed the seven-day test required by the contract and are about to be taken over by the Post Office. The sending station is at Grimsby and the receiving station at Skegness. The corresponding stations in Australia are at Ballan and Rockbank near Melbourne; and it is pro- 194 posed to operate the service between Lon[...]on and Melbourne. Many detailed arrangements have still to be made, and I cannot yet state on whate date the service will be opened to the public.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYCould any indication be given of the cost of these services?
§ Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSONThe capital cost?
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYNo, the ordinary cost per message.
§ Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSONThe rates? No, not at present. That is one of the subjects which is under discussion.