§ 30. Dr. Littleasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that, notwithstanding the arrangement entered into at the native's desire that there should be a reduction of 10 per 555 cent. each year over a period of years in the importation of gin and rum into West Africa, there has recently been an increase in the importation of both gin and rum into that country; and whether he will have inquiries made into this breach of a settled compact, and give orders that the arrangement of a 10 per cent. reduction each year shall be compulsorily observed?
§ 33. Mr. Stokesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that, in December, 1939, 150,000 imperial gallons of gin were authorised by the Governor of the Gold Coast for importation into that country; and, as this was contrary to the agreement made with the native chiefs in 1931, that by 1940 imports of gin should cease altogether, will he state the reason for which the Governor saw fit to break this agreement?
Mr. M. MacDonaldI would refer to the reply which I gave to a Question by the hon. Member for Coat bridge (Mr. Barr) on 21st February, from which it will be seen that there has been no breach of agreement. The recent amendment of the law, which incidentally does not refer to rum, has been made with the approval of the African members of the Legislative Council and would appear to be in accord with public opinion.
§ Dr. LittleHas this breach of an enactment solemnly entered into the consent and concurrence of the Colonial Office?