§ 34. Mr. William Teelingasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps he is taking to make an improvement in the gold production of the Gold Coast to help in bridging the gap in our dollar deficit; and what consultations he has had with the Colonial Secretary on this question.
§ Sir S. CrippsHis Majesty's Government are anxious that everything possible should be done consistent with our international obligations to stimulate the output of gold in West Africa, and my hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies gave the House some account of the measures that are being taken in his speech on 31st March. I do not, however, consider that in present circumstances a scheme along the lines of the Canadian subsidy would be appropriate.
§ Mr. TeelingIs the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that he is not asked anything about the Canadian subsidy in this Question? What he is asked is whether he has been in consultation with the Colonial Secretary, as the Colonial Secretary stated at the end of the Debate that most of the suggestions made had nothing to do with him but were entirely connected with the Chancellor?
§ Sir S. CrippsBut I was asked whether I would apply the Canadian subsidy scheme, with necessary adjustments, to the gold mining industry of West Africa.
§ Mr. TeelingOn a point of Order, if the Chancellor will look at Question No. 34, there is no such suggestion there.
§ Sir S. CrippsI apologise. There was in the original form of the Question. I presume it has been taken out.
§ Mr. MitchisonWhat is a gap in a deficit and how do you bridge it?