THE RIVAL CABLE SCHEMES.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXI, Issue 55, 6 March 1900, Page 5

THE RIVAL CABLE SCHEMES.

CONFERENCE IN SYDNEY.

SYDNEY, this clay,

The Chamber of Commerce discussed the rival cable schemes. A resolution was moved "That, while welcoming" the laying' of the Cape cable, it is desired to protest against New South Wales breaking faith in the original arrangements with the other colonies with reg-ard to the Pacific cable."

Some members objected to the resolution being" sprung' on the meeting", and warmly supported the Cape cable from a. business point of view. They considered the Eastern Extension Col proposal was one. that the Government might fairly accept, and that they were making a good deal.

Mr Warren, who was present, pointed o\it the value to the Empire of the Cape route for strategical purposes, a fact recognised by the Admiralty.

Mr Lark, the Canadian Commissioner, strongly condemned as a breach of faith the action of New South Wales and Victoria in changing their policy without consulting the other colonies involved in the Pacific scheme. It was now a question of the Pacifiic caWe or coii'timuance of a monopoly. Tf the Pacific cable died this year, the Canadian Government was not for a few years to come goingto the expense it had been put- to already. It was not going to lose a largo sum annually oil the route for the benefit of° Australian traders.

Eventually it was decided to adjourn before coming to a final decision.

The cable steamer Sherard Osborne shortly starts taking- soundings for the Cape cable between Adelaide and Cocos Island,- another steamer takingsoundings between Durban and Cocos.

BEISBANE, March 5

The Chamber of Commerce has endorsed the Premier's attitude in reference to the Pacific cable.