§ Mr. KEIR HARDIEasked (1) What is the amount of royalty per ton paid by the Whitehaven Coal Company on the Crown minerals now being worked by that company; and (2) whether he has claimed or obtained payment of royalties on the coal which has been worked under the sea beyond the three mile limit at the Wellington Colliery, Whitehaven; if not, what action he proposes taking to recover the same?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEWith the hon. Member's permission, I will answer these questions together. The interest of the Crown in the mineral substances down to the bottom of the coal measures under the bed of the sea and below low water for a distance of ten miles from the lighthouse on St. Bees' Head was sold to the Earl of Lonsdale in 1881. In consequence of this sale no royalties are received or could be claimed by the Crown in respect of workings by the Whitehaven Coal Company.
§ Mr. KEIR HARDIECan a copy of the agreement under which the interest of the Crown was sold be seen?
§ Mr HOBHOUSEI cannot answer offhand, but, speaking off-hand, I see no objection.