§ 25. Mr. HUTCHISONasked the Postmaster-General if he can state the reasons for which he is unable at the present time to obtain an adequate supply of telegraph poles from British and Empire sources?
§ Sir K. WOODAs to home sources, many efforts have been made by advertisement, by direct invitation, and by cooperation with Associations of home growers to obtain adequate offers of poles grown in this country; but the total number offered is much below the total requirements, and of those offered a high proportion has to be rejected either because of unsuitability or of excessive price. During the last five years the home-grown poles actually delivered have fallen short by several thousand of the numbers ordered. As to Empire poles, for next year's requirements I have received only three tenders. I am sorry to say in each case the price was prohibitive, and the timber of unacceptable species. I shall continue to do all I can to obtain poles from British and Empire sources so long as they are suitable and the price is not excessive.
§ Sir K. WOODThat is another matter.