Mr. ROGERS:

The Government is strong believer in the advantages of that project, but this is not a desirable time for the Government to undertake work of this kind, and I am sure my hon. friend, no matter how favourable he might be to it, would not recommend our doing so. I am glad the committee agree with me that we are taking the right course in cutting off expenditure in the meantime. The information will be preserved until the day arrives when this great national undertaking shall be carried out to completion.

Mr. NESBITT:

Is the minister going to drop the item? [DOT]

Mr. ROGERS:

A certain amount will be required to pay the incidentals in connection with closing up the work.

Mr. LEMIEUX:

I would move that the item be reduced by $10,000.

Mr. ROGERS:

I do not know what

amount will be required, but if my hon. friend wants the item to stand, we will have a statement made of the amount we require.

To pay Western Dry Dock and Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., of Port Arthur, a portion of the fourth payment of subsidy due them upon their completion of the work covered by the agreement ratified by Chap. 57, 3-4 George V, 1913, notwithstanding that the work is not completed, $35,641.50.

Mr. MURPHY:

The wording of this item shows that it is contrary to the provisions of the statute.

Mr. ROGERS:

There are three buildings that the company did not erect in accordance with the original agreement, but the cost of those buildings has been deducted, and the company are being paid a subsidy only upon the work they have already done.

Mr. MURPHY:

Why is the item inserted in this way?

Mr. ROGERS:

I do not know of any other way in which it could be inserted.

Progress reported.

On motion of Hon. Mr. Rogers the House adjourned at 6 p.m.

Monday, July 30, 1917.