MUNITIONS

Dominion, Volume 8, Issue 2519, 21 July 1915, Page 8

MUNITIONS

WHAT BRITAIN WANTS. The following is a decode of a cablegram received by the Commonwealtl Defenco Department from tlie Secretary for the Colonies, dated London. July 9:— "With reference i.o your telegram of July 2, and previous correspondence regarding muuitioitf, the Minister for Munitions much regrets that, owing t tt the great pressure of work incidental to the organisation of the-new Depart-" ment. ajid the exceptional pressure of current business in England, there has ' been a delay in furnishing the informa- ' t-ion asked for. He now asks 'me to .- inform'you that, in his opinion, Australia can help best by producing 18" pounder shell bodies. Theso are made i of bar steel, price 30s. each for first 20,000, and- £1 each for' further sup. 1 ' plies. This price is based on the estimated cost of steel bars at £15 per ton and lid. for copper bands. He doesnot advise the manufacture of largei calibre shells in Australia except undei j certain conditions. ;

"Full information with regard to th« manufacture of -18-pounder shells will bp sent. • a "Ab regards the offer of supplies referred to. in your telegram of July 2. the Minister for Munitions is not aware of any exceptional demand for steel railsand wooden sleepers, but further inquiries will be made. The output of wagons here is already in excess of'the demand." -

In addition, the following cable, dated July 10, has been received from the High Commissioner in London:—

"Assured to-day that the offer of the Government of the Commonwealth of Australia, re munitions, has been ; receiving tie . most «!aref*il consideration of the Ministry. They hope to give ft full reply shortly."