PACIFIC CABLE

Southland Times, Issue 17619, 6 April 1914, Page 5

PACIFIC CABLE

MINISTER IN TER VI E WED. (Per United Press Association). DUNEDIN. April 1. The I lon. 11. H. Rhodes, interviewed by a Star reporter with reference to the Pacific cable, pointed out that lire department had at various limes urged upon the Pacific Cable Board a reduction in ordinary cable charges for messages to and from the United Kingdom. The negotiations extend'd from May, 1312. to February last. Tiie High Commissioner- telegraphed tha: he had carried a motion for a reduction in the cable rate, but notice was given to rescind the motion. Last mrnth the .Post-master-General sent a reply approving of the High Commissioners action, urging ratification and strongly opposing the rescinding. Mr Rhodes said the system for the despatch o"f week-end cables between New Zealand and the United Kingdom was being well supported. The system was inaugairated on January 4. IUI3, and the return for (he year ended December 21 showed the number of messages forwarded at 2615 via Pacific (value £315.5), and 53(1 via Eastern (value £725); messages received 837 via Pacific, and 771 via Fasten). Mr Rhodes showed a return indicating deficiencies on the working of the Pacific cable since its Inauguration, The total deficit last year wa< £22.260. l.hc amount paid by New Zealand being £3585,