Major-General Sir JOHN DAVIDSON (by Private Notice)asked the Secretary of State for War if his attention has been drawn to the recently reported heavy purchases of nitrate, leather, and lead by Russia, and if he has any information to impart regarding military preparations by the U.S.S.R.?
§ Sir WILLIAM DAVISON (by Private Notice)asked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to recent purchases amounting to upwards of 50,000 tons by the Russia Soviet Government of high-grade Chilian nitrate, which is used exclusively for the production of explosives, while it is understood that further orders have been given; whether he has any information as to the purposes for which these large purchases are being made: and whether he can inform the House of the source from which they have been financed?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Sir Laming Worthington-Evans)I believe it is true that the Russian Government has purchased 50,000 tons of nitrate presumably for munition purposes. I have also received information that the Russian Government has pur- 4 chased large quantities of leather and tanning material, and also lead, copper, and tungsten. All of these supplies could be used for civil or military purposes.
§ Sir W. DAVISONWill my right hon. Friend say whether he has information as to how these purchases have been financed?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSNo, Sir, I have not the information. I presume, if they are paid for, they are paid for out of Russian resources.
§ Mr. HARDIECan the Minister say from whence the Government in question bought the nitrate; what was the source of the nitrate?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSIt was bought in Chile.