§ MR. ALLANI beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is able to state the present condition of the railways now in progress in the Colony and Protectorate of the Gold Coast, and when it is proposed to open the first section of the line for traffic; and what steps have been taken, or will be taken, to ensure the erection of suitable piers and landing-stages for commerce at Accra, Cape Coast Castle, Axum, Winnebah, Addah, Chamah, and Quittah?
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES (MR. J. CHAMBERLAIN, Birmingham, W.)The railway from Sokondi to Tarquah is making good progress, and it is anticipated that, if the seasons are not unfavourable, this line will be open for traffic early next year. Surveys of certain other routes have also been made, including a flying survey for a line to Coomassie. The construction of piers and landing stages on the West Coast is impracticable, in most cases, without very costly protective works against the heavy surf which constantly prevails. The question of carrying out such works at the places which may eventually be selected as the coast termini of the different railways is receiving-careful consideration.