§ 39. Mr. PETOasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been called to a proposal laid before the Commonwealth Parliament of Australia, on 28th August last, by Dr. Maloney, Member for Melbourne, that the debts of the various States composing the Commonwealth should be consolidated in one Commonwealth Stock with a view to the saving in interest effected, being used as a contribution from the Commonwealth towards the naval defence of the Empire; whether this step would meet with a sympathetic reception from his Department; and whether he can give the House any information on the subject?
Mr. HARCOURTI have seen the statement to which the hon. Member refers, but do not think it right that I should express any opinion upon it, since it is a matter solely for the consideration of the Commonwealth Government and Parliament.