§ 28. Mr. SMITHERSasked the Postmaster-General what are the conditions governing licences to American cable companies operating in this country; for what period these licences are granted; when do they expire; and, in view of the fact that the American Government does not grant licences to British cable companies operating in America, will he initiate negotiations for reciprocal facilities before renewing the licences of the American companies operating in England?
§ Sir K. WOODCable landing licences which were granted to two American companies expired some years ago and have not yet been renewed. In the meantime arrangements have been made with the companies for the continuance of their services between this country and North America. The United States Government have in the past granted permission 16 to British companies to land cables in the United States. So far as I am aware, no British cable company has recently applied for permission to land a transatlantic cable in that country, but I have no reason to suppose that if such an application were made it would be refused.
§ Mr. SMITHERSIs it a fact that American cable companies are now operating in this country without any licence at all?
§ Sir K. WOODThat is another matter. My hon. Friend had better put the question on the Paper.