NEW ZEALAND NEWS.

Taihape Daily Times, Volume XII, Issue 3621, 6 November 1920, Page 5

NEW ZEALAND NEWS.

BOOKMAKERS' 'PHONES. WELLINGTON. Nov. 5. Punctually at midnight of Wednesday between 60 Wellington were disconnected by the postal authorities. These 'phones were alleged to have been used systematically by bookmakers or their agents, and there is a regulation under which the Postmaster-General may direct this cutting of communication if he has reason to believe that the instruments are used for illegal purposes. But this midnight coup had a sequel in the morning, when astonished subscribers who had been told they would cease to have the use of telephones, were officially notified that the service would be resumed, but that, as suspicion of illegal use was held by the authorities, their communications might be subject to surveillance.

It is roumoured that the coup was brought off prematurely by some official who mistook intsructions, acting without the indispensable Ministerial authority, which had not been given. However, those Wjho have used . the telephone for betting realise that if another cut comes it will be properly supported by the Minister's signature, and will be permanent.

GOLD-MINING REVIVAL. NEW THAMES VENTURES THAMES, Nov. 5. According to. statements made in the According to statements made in the Warden \s Court, Quito a number of new mining companies are in process of formation. Besides, existing companies, and those working entirely new ground, companies are being formed to work the low levels of the Alburnia and Occidental, and the Eclipse ground up Taran.r Creek. There is a good deal more hopeful tone in mining' circles, 'due in some measure to bright prospects of the Evening Star mine, in which, the reef indications are very encouraging.