HC Deb 21 May 1874 vol 219 cc618-9
MR. JOHN HOLMS

asked the Under Secretary of State for the Colonies. Whether with the Supplementary Estimates which he proposes to introduce after Whitsuntide, relating to the expenditure of the Gold Coast, he will also give an estimate of the annual amount proposed to be expended on account of our Military Forces in the Settlement?

MR. J. LOWTHER

Sir, the Supplementary Estimates referred to by the hon. Member will not include any expen- diture in respect of our military forces upon the Gold Coast, but they will contain a provision for the maintenance of a force of armed police. Without anticipating the statement I shall have to make to the House, I may mention that the substitution to a considerable extent of police for a military force will form an important feature in the plan about to be adopted.