30. Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps are being taken in Nigeria to overhaul the conditions of labour in the tinmines of the plateau; whether new conditions are being imposed on the concession holders in respect to restoration of land, removal of debris, adoption of up-to-date methods of extraction and welfare, relief of density of population, restoration of fertility of soil for the tribes; whether any new regulations governing existing and new concessions will be imposed; and whether the portion of the royalties distributed to private shareholders in Europe will be retained for the benefit of African development.
§ Colonel StanleyFuture policy with regard to the mining industry in Nigeria is now under review, but I am not at present in a position to make a statement on the subject.
Mr. Creech JonesWhen the right hon. and gallant Gentleman comes to consider the whole problem, will he take into consideration some of the points mentioned in my letter, because of the rather disgraceful conditions that exist there?
§ Colonel StanleyI would not use the word "disgraceful" but both the hon. Member and I have recently visited the area, and I agree that there is a good deal to be done.