§ 44. Mr. Rileyasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what is the law in Jamaica regarding mineral rights; does the freehold owner of land possess a right to ownership of undisclosed minerals; what is the position with regard to bauxite; and if the Colonial Government or the Colonial Office is taking any action regarding the production of bauxite in Jamaica.
§ Colonel StanleyIn Jamaica mineral rights, except over precious metals and oil, belong to the owners of the surface soil. It has been decided that Jamaica bauxite is not required for the war effort, and accordingly no action is at present being taken by the Government for its production. I am in consultation with the Governor on long-term policy.
§ Mr. RileyCan the Secretary of State say whether the American companies are being established in Jamaica to exploit the production of bauxite, and what action is going to be taken?
§ Colonel StanleyThe buyers of private land showing possibilities of bauxite have been warned by the Government that as part of the long-term policy restrictive legislation may be introduced and may be retrospective in effect.