11. 39

1903. NEW ZEALAND.

NEWCASTLE COAL IMPORTED DURING 1902-3, AND PRICE OF AS COMPARED WITH NEW ZEALAND COAL.

Return to an Order of the House of Representatives dated the 21st August, 1903. Ordered, "That there be laid before this House a return showing the quantity of Newcastle coal imported into New Zealand during the year ending the 31st March, 1903, and the cost per ton of each cargo, or such information as will show the difference in price of New Zealand and Newcastle coal." —(Mr. Smith.)

Eeturn op Coal. Statement showing the Quantity and Value of Newcastle Coal imported into New Zealand during the Year ended the 31st March, 1903,' and the Average Price per Ton. 139,041 tons ... ... ... ... ... ... £134,371 The average price per ton being 19s. 4d. The c.i.f. price at the ship's side, Wellington, for New Zealand coal is as follows : — Screened. Unscreened. £ s. d. £ s. d. Westport... • ... ... ... ... 1 2 8 0 18 8 Brunner ... ... ... ... ... 1 2 6 10 0 The c.i.f. price at the ship's side, Wellington, for Newcastle coal is quoted by importers as £1 9s. per ton. Department of Trade and Customs, Wellington, W. T. Glasgow, 16th September, 1903. Secretary and Inspector. Approximate Cost of Paper. —Preparation, not given ; printing (1,250 copies), 17s.

By Authority : John Mackay, Government Printer, Wellington.—l9o3. Price 3d.]