§ 86. Mr. STANTONasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will consider the possibility of placing British timber orders with some of our own British Colonies instead of placing such orders with America; if he is aware that Victoria (B.C.) Canada, has unlimited timber supplies, and that quality, quantities, and prices are more favourable than we are now paying; if he will consider the possibility of assisting our own Colonies, whose sons are risking their lives on our British battle fronts; and will he inquire into the placing of such orders at once?
§ Mr. BECK (Junior Lord of the Treasury)The desirability of placing timber orders with British Dominions has always been kept in view, and large orders have been placed in Canada. Orders placed in the United States of America have been limited to timber produced in that country only. The First Commissioner is aware of the timber resources of British Columbia, and a considerable amount of timber has been obtained from there. The question of obtaining further supplies has recently received careful consideration, and negotiations are at present in progress for a further supply, but (ho restrictions in placing orders, owing to the lack of tonnage, and the long sea voyage, have to be borne in mind.