§ 16. Mr. Parkinasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what official recognition is given to the Association of West African Merchants; and what proportion of the trade with West Africa is done through this body.
Mr. Creech JonesThe Association of West African Merchants is a trade association and not a trading body. The second part of the Question does not, therefore, arise. On the first part, official recognition has been given to the Association to no greater extent than to any other lawful association of business or professional interests. I take the opportunity of saying that the Governor of the Gold Coast has recently suggested that the Gold Coast branch of the Association, which was formed during the late war on the suggestion of Government to assist in the administration of war-time economic controls, is no longer required and should be disbanded. The firms concerned are in agreement and will, I understand, take the necessary action.