AUSTRALIAN CABLES.

Gisborne Times, Volume VII, Issue 320, 22 January 1902, Page 1

AUSTRALIAN CABLES.

By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyrigti

Sydney, Jan. 21. The Herald says the freetrade capital of the freetrade State does not regard the American Senate’s proposed vote for the extension of Pacific trade with either indignation or dismay. These ships that visit our shores will not come orgo empty, and it is not our theory, at all events, that the State loses by external commerce. The point is that they cannot run steamers without doing us a benefit in cultivating trade. The Federal Postmaster-General will probably agree to pay poundage on Australian mails sent via ’Frisco, but whether be will go further in the direction invitod by Blr Spreckels is open to stroDg doubt.

The Daily Telegraph endorses the distinction made by the Imperial authorities between Messrs Barton and Seddon and the State Premiers at the Coronation. It is a logical consequence of Federation that it is never to be expected that seven State Premiers would bo recognised under Federation. It is enough that due honor is paid to the Government of the Commonwealth, the one proper channel of high communication with the Imperial authorities. Perth, Jan 21. The Premier approves of New Zealand being placed in a different position to the other States. That it should have the preference over individual States of the Commonwealth is one of the natural penalties of Federation. Blelbourne, Jan. 21. The Age, commenting on Blessra Burns, Philp and Company’s letter, says any serious consideration of the Spreckels proposals by the Commonwealth is hardly likely for the best of all reasons, because it would interfere with the interests of Australasian mercantile marine. The desire is just as strong here as in America to give preference to locallyowned steamers. That the Pacific waterway in future is to be a matter of considerable importance is fully recognised by America and Australasia, and it is equally, if not more important, that the carrying trade should be retained in British hands. To subsidise tho foreigner would be a lamentable error.