21. Mr. David Adamsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can now supply the return asked for, on 22nd November, 1939, by the hon. Member for Consett, for particulars to be 951 obtained from the Governor of the Gold Coast for a return covering the last 10 years, showing the total profits declared by the gold companies of that Colony, and the amount spent on the welfare of the workers by these companies during that period; and, in view of the fact that the Governor was then requested to supply this information, whether he can now indicate the cause of the delay in obtaining the same?
Mr. M. MacDonaldI regret that this information has still not been received. The collection of detailed information of this kind covering a period of years and its presentation in the form desired must, in present conditions, necessarily take some time. I have, however, asked the Governor to inform me by telegram when I may expect to receive it: and I will inform the hon. Member of his reply.
Mr. AdamsI take it that the Minister is satisfied that these controlled companies are not showing disrespect to the Governor and to himself?