§ MR. ANDERSONasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies, If it be true that the Governor of the Gold Coast has been acquiring, or endeavouring to acquire, territory from native kings or chiefs by offers of money and rum, and if his proceedings have been sanctioned by Her Majesty's Government?
§ SIR MICHAEL HICKS-BEACHSir, I will endeavour to state what has actually occurred in regard to this matter. There is a point just outside the existing limits of the Gold Coast, where the head of the lagoon that affords water communication with the interior of the Protectorate approaches very near to the sea-shore. It was found that smuggling stations had been for some time established at that point, and the result was a very considerable loss to the revenues of the Colony, which, as the hon. Member is doubtless aware, are mainly derived from Customs' duties. The Governor of the Gold Coast was, therefore, directed to negotiate with the Chiefs and people of the district, with the view of including it within the Colony. He has obtained agreements from them to this effect, which are now under the consideration of Her Majesty's Government, the terms on which the cession is proposed to be made being an annual payment of about £325, and liberty to import a certain quantity of spirits free of duty. The whole extent of territory ceded is about five or six miles in length, and from one mile to two miles in breadth.