§ 41. Mr. TOUCHEasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the mineral rights in Nigeria are reserved to the Government or in whom they are vested?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Harcourt)In Northern Nigeria, and in part of Southern Nigeria, the Government succeeded to all the mining rights which had been acquired by the Niger Company. In the rest of Southern Nigeria the Government has assumed the right, by legislation, to direct 1172 under what conditions and by whom it may be carried on, the surface rights of the occupants of the land being duly protected.
§ Mr. J. WARDCan the right hon. Gentleman persuade the Administration to make similar provisions with regard to mining rights at home?
§ Mr. HARCOURTI have to do only with mining rights outside this country.