GOLD COAST (COCOA).

HC Deb 21 December 1938 vol 342 cc2876-8

51. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of the suspension of the cocoa buyers' pool, it is proposed entirely to dissolve it at an early date; and whether he is aware of considerable apprehension among the native farmers concerning the possibility of the pool again becoming operative and at the delay in implementing the recent Commission's report?

Mr. M. MacDonald

As regards the first part of the question, the matter is one for the parties to the agreement, but I understand that there is no question of its being revived. As regards the second part, the Gold Coast Government, who are actively considering the Commission's report, are in close touch with African opinion, and they have not reported to me any evidence of uneasiness among the native farmers.

Mr. Sorensen

Would the right hon. Gentleman agree that, as the cocoa buyers' pool is suspended, it will be beneficial to all concerned if some definite statement is made that it is now entirely dissolved?

Mr. Cartland

Before declaring any policy will my right hon. Friend consult the interests in this country as well as the interests in Africa?

Mr. MacDonald

I will certainly consult the interests in this country before any final decision is reached on this matter. As I said in answer to the main question, I understand that the position is that this agreement will not be renewed. It is not for me to make any more definite statement than that.

Mr. Sorensen

Surely the right hon. Gentleman will agree that the interest of the natives is paramount?

Mr. MacDonald

The interests of the natives are no less important than any other interests, and there are many interests involved. I am not satisfied that the interests of the natives and those of the traders cannot be perfectly easily reconciled.

Mr. R. Gibson

Has the suspension of the pool been reflected in increased overseas trade?

Mr. MacDonald

I think there has been some slight improvement in prices which has been reflected in trade, but I will let the hon. and learned Member know.

57. Mr. Chorlton

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the committee lately set up by the Gold Coast Government has a member representing cotton textile interests?

Mr. MacDonald

No, Sir; the purpose of the committee is to examine the practicability of the Commission's recommendations for the marketing of the cocoa crop and the probable cost of putting them into effect in the Gold Coast.

58. Mr. Chorlton

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps it is proposed to take other than the commission and the committee to prevent a situation arising in the West African market which would be likely to result in a boycott of British goods?

Mr. MacDonald

I have received no indication that the situation referred to by my hon. Friend is likely to arise, but the position is being carefully watched.

59. Mr. Chorlton

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, as a result of the report of the Commission followed by the committee just set up by the Gold Coast Government, he proposes to assist the marketing of West African cocoa by the introduction of a scheme designed to assure to the producer a minimum price for his cocoa?

Mr. MacDonald

The recommendations of the Cocoa Commission, which did not favour the fixing of a minimum price, are at present under active consideration, and I am not yet able to say what decisions will be taken upon them.