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Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2078, 2 January 1908, Page 4

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MR. FRAIN’S CONTRACT TERMINATED. QUESTION OF RE-BUILDING TO REMAIN IN ABEYANCE. Special to Times. WELLINGTON, Dec. 31. The Government has terminated the contract let to Mr. Frnin, of Invercargill, for extension to the Syd-ney-stroet side of Parliament buildings. Tho undertaking, which involved an outlay of £21,500, was entered into before tins fire, and a good deal of the work lias been done up to tho time of the destruction of the wooden portion of the buildings. Tho advisableness of terminating the contract had been considered after the conflagration, but nothing was" done, and the work was allowed to proceed as usual right up till yesterday, when notice of cancellation was received by Mr. Frnin. It was obvious from the outset, says tho “Post,” that something in this direction would have to bo done, as the plans provided for additions to a building which does not now exist. Extensive departure from the scheme laid down might ho rendered necessary by the ultimate decision of the representatives of the people when the question of re-build-ing that portion of the structure destroyed hv fire is finally settled next year. The contract entered into by Mr. Feiin provided for the erection of a. new dining-room for members, a social room, Ministerial rooms, and various committee rooms. The building was to have been erected in brick, with stone facings. The foundation bad all been completed, and a goodly portion of dressed stones bad been placed in position. Of course, the question of compensation to the contractor is involved in the Government’s decision. In 'accordance with the statements made by tho Premier, the work of reconstruction of the building will now be allowed ,to remain in abeyance until Parliament meets.