HC Deb 06 April 1925 vol 182 cc1800-1
10. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the Niger Company acts as forwarding and handling agents for a large number of companies operating on the tin fields; that the company, although receiving half the royalties on minerals, make applications through their representatives from time to time for mineral areas, particularly tin, and obtain grants in direct opposition to the tin companies, for whom they act as agents; and that some of those companies are small concerns and have practically no other choice than to appoint the Niger Company as their agents; and whether he, will consider taking steps to protect the rights and interests of these smaller companies?

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, but I see no reason for interference by Government with such legitimate business of the Niger Company.