§ Mr. GRANTasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is the present position regarding the construction of the railway from the port of Beira to the Zambesi River to meet there our extension from Port Herald, and thus give Nyasaland direct railway communication with the sea; if he has definite knowledge when the construction will commence; and if he proposes to take any active steps to forward the matter?
§ Sir E. GREYFrom the latest information which I have received I understand that progress is being made with the preliminary negotiations, but I have no definite knowledge as to when it is expected to begin construction. I do not consider it necessary to take any steps in the matter at present.