§ 20. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked the Secretary of State for India whether he has made any arrangements for restricting the export of mica from India; and, if so, who are the Government agents and have they any German connections?
§ Mr. CHAMBERLAINThe export of mica from India to countries other than the United Kingdom and British Posses- 651 sions is prohibited save under special licence. At the request of the Minister of Munitions, Messrs. Chrestien and Co. have been appointed Government agents for the purchase in India of such grades as are specially required for the manufacture of munitions. So far as I am aware there is no German element in the firm.
§ Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSMay I inquire whether one of the managers has already been interned, and whether he is let out again?
§ Mr. CHAMBERLAINI have made inquiries since the hon. Member sent this question. My information does not confirm it. In any case this firm was appointed by the Ministry of Munitions, and if he desires to pursue the matter further, perhaps he will address his question to them.
§ Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSI will.
§ Sir J. D. REESCan the right hon. Gentleman say where this firm has its offices?
§ Mr. CHAMBERLAINI am afraid I cannot answer that without notice.
§ Sir J. D. REESIf not in Southern India, will there be any agency in that quarter, as mica prevails in the southern State of Travancore?
§ Mr. CHAMBERLAINI do not think that that would necessarily be a reason for having two agents in control of the work.