HC Deb 19 February 1912 vol 34 c303
Sir WALTER MENZIES

asked whether the Pearl Fishery Company of Ceylon have approached the Government for some reduction in the terms of their lease; and, if so, with what result?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Harcourt)

In the course of the last two years the company has put forward several proposals which the Colonial Government has been unable to accept.

Sir W. MENZIES

Will the right hon. Gentleman advertise and get applications by public tender?

Mr. HARCOURT

I will consider what course I will take when these considerations arise.