§ 37. Mr. ORMSBY-GOREasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the Colonial Office has yet approached the directors of the big copper-mining companies in this country interested in the opening up of the new copper-field in Northern Rhodesia regarding the provision of hospitals and schools and the technical staff required for each of such institutions at the mining camps; and whether the companies have agreed to make such provision, either themselves or on a basis of partnership with the Government.
§ Mr. LUNNI would refer the right hon. Member to the reply given on 8th July to the hon. and gallant Member for St. Albans (Lieut.-Colonel Fremantle). No such action as he suggests has been taken. The Secretary of State considers that in the first place the views of his Advisory Committees and of the Protectorate Government should be obtained. This is being done.
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREWill the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that, as very large contracts are now being entered into in this country for the development of this new property, it is most essential that it should not be left to the Government of Northern Rhodesia, which is not in touch with the principals concerned, to make the definite arrangements regarding these matters'?
§ Mr. LUNNI agree with the first part of the supplementary question, but before any action is taken or any definite statement made, we must have further information from the Governor.