GENERAL CABLES.

Gisborne Times, Volume VII, Issue 339, 13 February 1902, Page 1

GENERAL CABLES.

By Telegraph—Press Association —Copyrighl London, Feb. 11.

Great Britain’s demand that the import duty on sugar bo reduced one-half, under penalty of reprisals in the United Kingdom, the colonies, and India, has alarmed Austrian and German traders, who unanimously recommend the resistance of any change in tho bounties or Customs duos on sugar. The conference adjourned to enable the German and Austrian delegates to confer with their Governments.

In order to secure greater structural strength in torpedo destroyers, tho speed will be reduced to 27 knots. Madame Melba has been commanded to sing a special Coronation odo before the King and his visitors at Covent Garden.

A case of smallpox has occurred ai Dublin.

A sculling race between Barry and Henry Pearce, the Australian, over the Tyne course, for £SO a side, resulted in a win for Barry by three lengths. Tho British, German, and American Samoan cause is now before King Oscar for arbitration. The cases cover claims by natives.

Brisbane, Feb. 12.

The Government have decided, if suitable arrangements can be made, to place twenty thousand Germans on sugar lands. These Germans represent a large number of families at present in South Australia, working poor land. Queensland pays their passages.

Hobart, Feb. 12.

The Ministry believes tho action of the Federal Government ultra vires in regard to Tattersall’s, and asserts there is no power by a side issue to abrogate the Lotteries Act. Probably they will request a stay of action till tho Federal High Court can adjust the matter.

Sydney, Feb. 12. An official report shows there have been twelve cases of plague" since November. The disease is still existent among rats, but does not appear generally prevalent. The report throws no light on tho source of the present outbreak.

Melbourne, Feb. 12. The Tariff Committee decided to increase the exoise duty on cigarettes to three shillings a pound.