THE PACIFIC CABLE.

Waikato Argus, Volume V, Issue 324, 6 August 1898, Page 2

THE PACIFIC CABLE.

(BY ELECTRIC TELEGRAm—COPYRIGHT). (Received August f>, 11.12 a.m.) London, August 4. The report adopted at the Pacific Cable Conference in January, 1597, provided that Great Britain, Canada and Australasia should each contribute one-third of the cost of the cable. The Canadian Government, however, are now indisposed to endorse their former offer of one-third. The Daily News exhorts the friends of the Pacific cable, especially the Premiers of Queensland and New Zealand, to bestir themselves in order to prevent the scheme being quickly shelved. (Received Augusts, 10.50 p.m.). Brisbane, August 5. The Government has received information that at an informal conference, held in London, on July 29th, Canada was represented by the Post-master-General and High Commissioner, and New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia by their respective AgentsGeneral. The Canadian delegates suggested that Canada would probably contribute two-ninths towards the construction of the Pacific Cable. The Postmaster-General undertook to do his best to forward the scheme in Canada on this basis. It was stated that the Imperial contribution would not exceed one-third. The Conference enquired whether the Australasian colonies would guarantee the remaining four-ninths. This enquiry is now engaging the consideration of the Australian Governments. It is understood the Queensland Premier is favou'-aolv inclined.