§ 101. Mr. HEWINSasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the Australian Government have, since the outbreak of war, made any and, if so, what representations to the Imperial Government in regard to the cancellation of contracts under which Australian mining and metal companies are compelled to 190 supply their ores and concentrates to a metal combine in Germany until 1921; whether any proposal was made for uniform action on similar lines for the whole of the Empire; and, if so, in what way do His Majesty's Government propose to assist the Australian Government to effect their purpose?
Mr. HARCOURTRepresentations have been made by the Commonwealth Government, since the Outbreak of war, to the effect that a large proportion of the output of base metals in Australia has been, during recent years, under German control, and that it is desired to free from such control the copper, zinc, lead and tin industries. The Commonwealth Government have suggested concerted action as between themselves and His Majesty's Government with a view to the cancellation of contracts for the disposal of base metals to a German combine. The proposals of the Commonwealth are receiving most careful consideration, but the matter is one of great complexity. I would, however, call attention to the recent passing of the Legal Proceedings Against Enemies Act, which provides facilities for any doubts which may exist as to the effect of the War on contracts of the kind in question to be expeditiously resolved by the Courts.
§ Mr. HEWINSDo I understand it is not true that the proposals of the Commonwealth have been rejected?