HC Deb 14 April 1930 vol 237 cc2622-3
36. Mr. HANNON

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether his attention has been called to the hydro-electric power development scheme on the St. Francois River, in Quebec, designed to meet the growing requirements of the eastern townships of that province; and if he will take steps, when the plans are approved by the Quebec public service commission, to endeavour to secure that the contract for the necessary machinery may be placed in this country?

Mr. GILLETT

Various reports relating to this project, which is known as the Beauharnois scheme, have been sent to my Department which, in conjunction with His Majesty's senior trade commissioner in Canada, has already made and will continue to make every effort to secure that as large a proportion as possible of the orders for the necessary plant and material shall be placed in this country.

Mr. HANNON

May I ask whether the hon. Gentleman's Department is keeping in touch with the senior trade commissioner on other matters of a similar character?

Mr. GILLETT

I have no doubt that is the case, but I cannot actually say.