HC Deb 28 June 1906 vol 159 cc1131-2
MR. CATHCART WASON

I beg to ask the Under-Secretary for the Colonies if his attention has been directed to the proportion of revenue derived from the importation of rum and gin to West Africa, and the sale of the same to the natives, and to the legislation of New Zealand, and other countries, on the subject; and if he will take advantage of the presence of the Governors of North and South Nigeria to consult and consider how the traffic can, if not put an end to, at least be minimised.

MR. CHURCHILL

The Secretary of State is watching with close attention the traffic which is the subject of the hon. Member's Questions. There is no need to discuss restrictive measures with the High Commissioner of Northern Nigeria; for the sale and importation of spirits in that Protectorate is already absolutely prohibited. The state of the law in Southern Nigeria and in Lagos, whore existing conditions are more complex, will fall within the discussions of the International Liquor Conference to be held at Brussels in the autumn of this year; and the Secretary of State prefers to await the result of that Conference before taking new decisions.

MR. CATHCART WASON

Is the hon. Gentleman aware a large proportion of the revenues of Northern Nigeria is derived from the charges on these drinks?

MR. CHURCHILL'S

Answer was inaudible.

MR. CATHCART WASON

Does the prohibition apply to both black and whites?

MR. CHURCHILL

asked for notice of that Question. In answer to a further † See Col. 765. Question, the hon. Gentleman said the matter would be further considered after the International Liquor Conference.