§ 4. Sir PERCY HURDasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether, in view of the testimony of the Newfoundland Royal Commission that the economic stability of Newfoundland would be increased if more of the ore imported into the United Kingdom by the steel-makers of this country were taken from Newfoundland instead of from foreign countries, he will say by what means he proposes to encourage this intra-Empire trade?
Mr. J. H. THOMASI understand that negotiations have taken place between the various commercial interests concerned in this 'matter, which, it is hoped, will result in an increased use in future of Newfoundland ore in the United Kingdom. I understand that im- 663 ports of this ore have recently been resumed after a considerable lapse of time.
§ Sir P. HURDMay the House take it that the right hon. Gentleman himself is fully alive to the importance of developing these resources in the interests of Newfoundland and of the whole Empire?
Mr. THOMASI may say that I promised Mr. Alderdice two years ago to do my best, and personally called the steel interests together and even went to the extent of negotiating prices. This is the first result, and I hope that it will be followed up.