§ 37. Mr. WHITELEYasked the Secretary for Mines, whether he is aware that developments are in process for the production of oil from coal in Australia and Canada; and whether it is the intention of the Government to undertake such development in this country as a means of reviving the mining industry?
§ Commodore KINGI am aware that certain companies are endeavouring to exploit the production of oil from brown coals, lignites, shales, etc., in Australia and Canada. In answer to the second hart of the question, the Government have no present intention of doing more than they are already doing.
§ Commodore KINGI should have thought it was well known. The Government are rendering great assistance to research through the Fuel Research [...]oard, and, in all, are giving some £l00,000 a year for research other than in connection with safety and health; and they have also given this oil a preference over imported oil.