HC Deb 19 October 1916 vol 86 cc721-2
33. Sir H. DALZIEL

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what quantities of iron ore were exported by the Nova Scotia Steel and Coal Company to Messrs. Krupp and other German armament firms in the year prior to the outbreak of the War; whether the contracts with Krupp's contained any war clause extending the term of the contract by a period equal to that of the war or having any other effect; whether the iron ore mines have been shut down in consequence of the loss of the German market; and whether any use can be made of the output of these mines in connection with the production of munitions of war by this country or the Allies?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Bonar Law)

An answer to the first two parts of this question was given by me on 25th January, to which I would refer my right hon. Friend. The Newfoundland Minister of Finance stated in his Budget speech on 18th April that, owing to the increased demand for iron ore for various forms of war work, as well as for commercial purposes, the mines at Bell Island were being operated on a scale of unexampled activity.