§ MR. ELLIS (Nottinghamshire, Rushcliffe)I beg to ask the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the attention of the Secretary of State has been directed to the great and rapid increase in the importation of spirits into Southern Nigeria, and to the demoralisation and other evils consequent on this traffic; and whether he proposes to take any steps in the matter, and in that case what is their nature.
§ COLONEL SEELYThe attention of the Secretary of State has been called to this subject. The question of the extent of evils consequent on the traffic is one on which there is a wide difference of opinion among those best qualified to judge, and the Secretary of State proposes to institute a formal inquiry into the matter.
§ *MR. ASHLEYIs there any duty on spirits going into the country?
§ COLONEL SEELYYes, but it is a matter of opinion whether it is prohibitive.
§ MR. ASHLEYWill the hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of increasing it?
§ COLONEL SEELYThat is one of the matters which will be considered when the inquiry is instituted.
In answer to Mr. ELLIS—
§ COLONEL SEELYsaid Papers would probably be laid, and suggested that another Question should be put as to that in a week's time.