Valuable Metals From

Not For Japan

Valuable Metals From New Caledonia

rE most difficult and delicate problem with whfch the pro-de Gaulle Government of New Caledonia has had to deal was the disposal of the colony’s important production of chrome and nickel.

When France collapsed, the colony’s natural market for these metals was cut off. It was vital, if the colony’s com mercial structure was to be preserved, that the metals be sold, somewhere. They represent, in a normal year, two-thirds of the value of the colony’s exports.

There was one eager market available.

Japan urgently wanted all the metals which New Caledonia could sell. But Japan, about the time that New Caledonia committed itself to de Gaulle and the British Alliance, became a partner of the Allies’ enemies (Germany and Italy). It was natural that New Caledonia, guessing the ultimate destination of the chrome and nickel, was reluctant to sell to Japan.

The position was embarrassing.

However, Governor Sautot’s dilemma was solved for him by the march of events. The United States and Australia, making munitions to an increasing degree, found themselves able to buy all New Caledonia’s metals at a satisfactory price; and the Governor told his Council, at a public session in December, “that the problem had been resolved and that the colony would be assured that the United States and countries of the British Em pire would take the entire nickel and chrome production. That would mean that New Caledonia’s commercial balance would be completely secured, permitting a resumption of imports”.

Koitaki Rubber Estates Ltd., a Papuan £75,000 company, made a profit of £12,156 out of rubber in the year ended June 30, 1940. Previous net profits have been: 1936, £7,964; 1937, £10,425; 1938, £3,556; 1939, £9,882,