§ 22. Mr. Louis Smithasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that iron ore in very large quantities is being purchased from Russia, whereas in Newfoundland there is one of the largest iron ore mines in the Empire; and whether his Department will ascertain the possibility of exploiting the mineral wealth of our own Empire rather than that of foreign countries?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade (Dr. Burgin)I have no information that iron ore is being purchased from Russia, but I am informed that substantial quantities of iron ore are being imported this year from Newfoundland where the mines are now fully occupied.
§ Mr. SmithWhile thanking my hon. Friend for his reply, may I ask whether he will get into touch with the industrial association concerned, and see whether a greater tonnage of iron ore cannot be imported from Newfoundland during the next year or two?
§ Mr. PalingHave we not some Commissioners in Newfoundland who are supposed to look after the interests of that Dominion?
§ Dr. BurginAll the iron ore that can be got from Newfoundland is being imported.