CABLE NEGOTIATIONS

New Zealand Times, Volume LXXI, Issue 4289, 23 February 1901, Page 5

CABLE NEGOTIATIONS

JOINT PURSE PROPOSAL. MELBOURNE, February 22. The ‘‘Argus” states that the joint purse proposal in connection with the Pacific and Cape schemes has fallen to the ground. The Hon R. Philp, Premier of Queensland, and the Hon J. G. Ward, both condemn it. The opposition of New Zealand came as a surprise, for Mr Sedddh was the first to suggest pooling the receipts. (Received February 22, 9.25 p.m.) LONDON, February 22. Tho Pacific Cable Board will meet on Monday to consider whether it is desirable to negotiate with the Eastern Extension Telegraph Company, and whether the board should take action in the face of the arrangements of certain colonies with that company. The Board will also decide what constitutes an all-British cable across America. It is understood that Victoria is seeking the Board’s approval to giving the Eastern Extension Company concessions similar to those given by other colonies. DENIAL BY MR SEDDON. Tho Prcmiar (Bight Hoh. R. J. Seddon) says that tho statement appearing in the Melbourne “Argus/’ in connection with the Pacific cable, that he suggested tho pooling of receipts, has no foundation, and is absolutely incorrect. At the conference held in Melbourne one of the representatives made the statement that it had appeared in print that the Pacific Cable Board had mentioned tlie pooling of the receipts, and that was all that took place respecting the same. The representative who made this statement was not Mr Seddon.