§ Mr. WEDGWOODasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been called to the statement of Mr. Frank Cogill before Lord Sanderson's Committee to the effect that the mining companies are assuming more or less that they have the surface rights of the lands conceded to them in the Gold Coast; and what steps are being taken to safeguard tribal rights in land in these areas?
Mr. HARCOURTThe exact extent of the surface rights of the several mining companies on the Gold Coast is one on which I prefer not to give an opinion, as it may probably be made the subject of judicial decision. The law provides that no concession shall be valid unless the customary rights of natives are reasonably protected; and it is the policy of the Government to preserve the tribal system so far as possible.
§ Mr. WEDGWOODHas my right hon. Friend's attention been called to a company recently floated where these land rights are stated to have been granted by the chief to the company?