HC Deb 26 November 1947 vol 444 c1962
18. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what assistance is available for West African and other colonial peoples, who have the requisite training, and who desire to start small secondary industries in their colonial areas.

Mr. Creech Jones

Assistance by way of loans in suitable cases is available in Sierra Leone through the Development of Industries Board which was set up last December. In the Gold Coast, legislation has been introduced to set up an Industrial Development Corporation to assist in the development of secondary industries. Nigeria has a Local Development Board and legislation to enable it to make advances to individuals are under consideration. Guidance in the setting up of secondary industries by local people is also available from the Departments of Commerce and Industry which have now been set up in a number of Colonies.

Mr. Sorensen

Do I understand from my right hon. Friend that, in fact, whilst one Colony has already made advances, in Nigeria, the largest of the four, no advances, have been made; if so, could he say when those advances are likely to be available to suitable applicants?

Mr. Creech Jones

In the case of Nigeria a Department of Industry and Commerce has been set up, and is looking at the problem of the development of these industries.

Mr. Sorensen

But I take it that up to now no advances have been made?

Mr. Creech Jones

That, I cannot say without notice.