§ 52. Mr. Chorltonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the present position in the Gold Coast of the cocoa trade and also of the textile, cotton, imports into that district; and whether the results of the commission's recommendations have proved satisfactory and effective?
Mr. M. MacDonaldAlmost the whole of the 1938–39 Gold Coast cocoa crop has now been disposed of. No marketing difficulties have been experienced, but prices have remained low throughout the season. Imports of cotton piece goods have fallen by nearly 20 per cent. during the cocoa season just completed, as compared with imports in the 1937–38 season, when importers were laying in stocks which have since had to be liquidated. With regard to the last part of the question, I cannot yet add anything to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member for Rothwell (Mr. Lunn) on 8th March.
§ Mr. BurkeCan the right hon. Gentleman say when he is likely to be able to give a reply with regard to the recommendations of the Commission?
Mr. MacDonaldI am expecting the report of the Commission which has been set up on the Gold Coast, some time early in June.