Mr Seddon in Explanation.

Alexandra Herald and Central Otago Gazette, Issue 403, 28 January 1904, Page 5

Mr Seddon in Explanation.

The Right Hon the Premier has forwarded the following information to the press:—"l desire you to correct the incorrect statement appearing in your London cable news to the effect that { shipping circles adverserly comment on Mr Seddon inviting German shipowners to tender for the west of England steamship service.' As you are aware, tenders were publicly invited in the colony, and the Agentgeneral was notified of this and requested to inform shipowners at Home that tenders were called and giving particulars. The Agent-general did so, and I am nofraware up to the present time what particular shipowners were notified. The Agentrgoneral'ff cable to me contained the following respecting the action he had taken: •' I have addressed' a circular to 42 shipowners informing them that the New Zealand Government is calling for tenders for a steam service from New Zealand to Liverpool, Glasgow, or other parts on the West Ooast of the United Kingdom as instructed in your telegram of the 27th December/ In the face of these facts to say that Mr Seddon had invited the German shipowners to tender is pure fabrication and misrepresentation. Tenders were publicly invited. Those who liked to,tender could do so, and it is hoped that the result may be that British shipowners may carry British goods at the same rate as they carry those manufactured in foreign coun* tries."