§ 90. Mr. R. MCNEILLasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he can give the House any information in regard to the sale of enemy properties in Nigeria; whether any and, if so, what changes were made in the conditions of sale; whether any lots were purchased by neutral bidders; whether any alterations were made in the German trade marks offered for sale; and what sum of money was realised for the late German owners?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Bonar Law)As regards the conditions of sale, besides some verbal alterations, the more important additions were: (a) To provide that I might disallow any purchase if I did not approve of the purchaser; (b) to prevent the transfer of trade marks to enemy interests; and (c) to prevent the use in the trade marks sold of the name or initials of any enemy firm or a reference to its establishment in enemy territory. I am not yet aware whether any of the lots were purchased by neutrals. Some of the trade marks given in the catalogue were for various reasons not offered for sale. The gross amount realised at the sale was £383,674, but in what way the balance obtained from the sale of enemy property will ultimately be disposed of it is at present impossible to say.
§ Mr. BILLINGWill the right hon. Gentleman take steps to find out who are the purchasers?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThat cannot be made known until the sale has been completed.
§ Mr. G. FABERWho holds the money?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWIn the meantime it will be held by the Nigerian Government.