§ 35 and 37. Mr. Dodds-Parkerasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies (1) what action, having regard to the continued inadequacy of rolling stock on the Central Line in Tanganyika to carry present commitments of goods traffic, it is proposed to take to serve the large scale requirements of the groundnut scheme;
(2) whether he is aware of the concern among commercial users of the Tanganyika Central Line about the situation likely to arise when they have to compete for wagon space with the Governmentsponsored scheme; and what provision will be made for their goods traffic.
Mr. Creech JonesI am fully satisfied with the liaison between the Tanganyika Government and the managing agents for the groundnuts scheme on questions of railway equipment. Forty-seven box wagons have been on order to meet the ordinary goods traffic from the Central Line and orders for a further 90 have been placed to cover the extra requirements of the groundnuts scheme. About 250 wagons of miscellaneous types are also now being obtained from surplus stocks in the Middle East for the Central Line.
§ Mr. Dodds-ParkerCan the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that local interests will not be entirely prejudiced by the Government's action over the groundnuts scheme, which after all is finally for the benefit of this country?
Mr. Creech JonesYes, Sir. The producers are already there who are engaged in the production of the vital needs both for their own and for this country, and their railway requirements are very much in our minds and will not be prejudiced.
§ 36. Mr. Dodds-Parkerasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will give an assurance that plans for harbour and wharfage development in Dar-es-Salaam will keep pace with the large-scale demands of the groundnut scheme and also serve the growing needs of existing commercial undertakings.
Mr. Creech JonesThe number of cranes at Dar-es-Salaam has recently been increased by two and a further three will shortly be added. Extensions to transit sheds are being planned. It is considered 1938 that all traffic during the next few years can be handled over the existing quay, although its capacity will be taxed. Extensions to the quay can be undertaken only after progress has been made with other more urgent work.