HL Deb 11 February 1850 vol 108 c614
EARL TALBOT

rose to put a question to the noble Secretary for the Colonies. He wished to know whether the Government intended to establish any such communication; and, if so, whether it was to be by the route of Singapore, or by that of the Isthmus of Panama?

EARL GREY

said, that contracts had been called for to conduct that communication in the most comprehensive manner. All the tenders which Government expected had not yet been received, and therefore it had not finally considered what route ought to be taken. The ultimate decision would partly depend on the terms which could be agreed upon.