HC Deb 29 April 1941 vol 371 cc349-50
45. Mr. Mander

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies what action he has taken to prevent the closing down of gold mines in the African Colonies involving the dismissal of staffs, in view of the importance to the national interest of the maximum production of gold?

Mr. George Hall

I am not aware of any cases in which mines producing gold in the Colonial territories in Africa have closed down or are likely to close down. Gold production in these territories has in fact increased substantially since the outbreak of war. If my hon. Friend has any specific case in mind, perhaps he will be so good as to communicate the facts to me.

Mr. Mander

I shall be glad to do so.

Mr. A. Edwards

Will the hon. Gentleman use all the influence he has to close as many of these mines as possible, as this work is a complete waste of time and energy?