HC Deb 10 March 1937 vol 321 cc1149-50
59. Mr. Creech Jones

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the contribution by the Nigerian Government to the cost of the rearmament programme has been made after consultation with representative leaders of native opinion; how the contribution will be derived; and whether, in view of the urgent necessity of expanding and building up native welfare schemes, he has satisfied himself that the contribution will not prejudice the existing native services and restrict their fair development?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

The proposal to make this contribution was approved unanimously by the Finance Committee of the Legislative Council of Nigeria, on which African opinion is represented. The contribution will be paid out of the surplus of revenue in the current year which, owing to the recent rise in the price of Nigerian exports, has exceeded expectations. The answer to the last part of the question is in the affirmative.

Mr. Creech Jones

In view of the economies in native welfare services during the slump period, will the right hon. Gentleman keep in mind this aspect of the problem?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

I certainly will, but it may be said that the services in Nigeria are native services, because it is entirely a native country.

Colonel Wedgwood

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in Nigeria the natives are not in a position to make this contribution, because in Nigeria the rents go into the Government's pocket?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

That is not so.