HC Deb 13 November 1929 vol 231 cc2030-1
51. Earl WINTERTON

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps have been taken to increase the public services in respect of roads, education and health in Northern Rhodesia to meet the demands of the large increase in the European population as a result of recent mining development; and whether any scheme of land settlement has yet been adopted?

Mr. LUNN

The principle of a development loan and a building programme has been sanctioned. The loan will also provide funds for surveys of land suitable for European settlement and advances to settlers for fencing, etc.

Earl WINTERTON

In view of the fact that in the last four or five years there has been increasing development in this country and that the white population has increased by 100 per cent., are we to understand that, although a loan has been sanctioned, nothing has been done?

Mr. LUNN

The matter is now under consideration by the Committee which is dealing with the Colonial Development Fund.

Earl WINTERTON

Is the hon. Gentleman not aware that this matter has been under consideration by the late Government and the present Government for a period of something like four years? Will he further say, in view of the initiative that we are told has been brought into the Government by him and his hon. and right hon. Friends, when he proposes to put this matter into operation?