§ 90. Mr. LUNNasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that payable alluvial gold has been found in two districts of Uganda and that a concession for precious minerals over an area of 700 square miles has been negotiated; and whether he will state to whom and by whom such concessions have been granted, the area and location of the concessions, and the terms and conditions?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Sir Philip Cunliffe-Lister)I am informed by the Governor of Uganda that while indications of alluvial gold have been known for some time in the Kigezi and Ankole districts (in the South-West corner of the Protectorate) there has as yet been no proof that gold exists in payable quantities. No concessions have been granted but six special exclusive prospecting licences have been issued. They cover a total area of 745 square miles and are for a maximum period of 12 months, subject to continuous satisfactory prospecting and the payment of a rent of £l per square mile per annum. The holders are all long-established local residents.
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI am not aware that there is any disturbance.
§ Mr. D. GRENFELLWill the right hon. Gentleman inform the House what is the difference between a concession and a prospecting licence?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI think that there is all the difference. A prospecting licence is a licence to go and look for gold and lasts for a, year, and a concession would presumably cover a prescribed area and be for a definite time.