asked the Minister of Supply in view of the fact that he has announced the contract prices for tin but not for copper, what is his policy in regard to the publication of prices he pays for non-ferrous metals and other commodities.

Tin is bought at a price fixed after discussion with representatives of the producers, who all get the same basic price, which can, therefore, he made public. Copper, lead, zinc and chrome ore are bought under varying arrangements from a large number of industrial producing companies all over the world and the prices paid are the results of normal commercial bargaining. Aluminium is bought under contract from producers in this country, and Canada. All these prices must, therefore, be treated as confidential in the interests of both the producer and the Ministry.

As the producers of tin are in the same category as the producers of other non-ferrous metals, why should they have publicity regarding prices and not the other trades?

I think the answer explains that. Tin is bought from three groups of producers. The other metals are bought from small producers all over the world, at varying prices.

When reference is made to the producers of tin, does the Minister mean the international tin cartel, or is that no longer in existence?

No, Sir, I mean the producers in Malaya and Nigeria, and the Bolivian producers.

Is the international tin cartel still consulted, or not?

No.