HC Deb 12 July 1944 vol 401 cc1727-8
24. Mr. Barr

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the amount of geneva or gin imported into the Gold Coast for 1941, 1942 and 1943, respectively; the amount estimated for 1944 on the basis of the amount already reported; and the quota, as fixed by the Government of the Gold Coast, of permitted gallons of geneva or gin that may be imported during 1944.

Colonel Stanley

The amounts imported in 1941, 1942 and 1943 were 13,801, 31,109 and 9,546 gallons respectively. Import licences have been granted for 1944 for 31,540 gallons. The quota for 1944 is 73,500 gallons.

Mr. Barr

Why is it that the quota is preserved at a much larger figure, more than double the actual importation? Is that in any way connected with a desire to renew the trade once the war is over in a new world?

Colonel Stanley

The quota represents what the territories normally need. The actual importation, which is very considerably lower, represents what, under the difficulties of shipping, they are able to get in.

Mr. Sorensen

How much does this work out per head per white person?

Colonel Stanley

I could not say, and it would not necessarily be relevant if I could.