§ Mr. WEDGWOODasked the the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether any steps are being taken to put a stop to the further granting by native chiefs in the Gold Coast Colony of land, mineral, or forest concessions; and, if not, will His Majesty's Government consider whether legislation can be introduced in that Colony which shall ensure that native rights are permanently safeguarded, and that the concessions are worked and not held up?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Harcourt)Mr. Belfield, 390 an officer in the service of the Federated Malay States of great experience in matters relating to land, is shortly proceeding to the Gold Coast to inquire into the whole question of concessions in that Colony. On the receipt of his report I shall consider whether it is necessary to provide any further safeguards, by legislation or otherwise, for the protection of native rights, and for ensuring the proper working of concessions.
§ Mr. HARCOURTI hope it will not be delayed at all.