§ 35. Captain Crowderasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the present rate of increase of the native population of Gambia; what is the estimated population 10 years hence; and how far will present local food supplies be able to satisfy the demand at that time.
Mr. Creech JonesThe estimated average rate of increase over the past 17 years has been about 3,000 per annum. At this rate the population will be slightly over 280,000 in 10 years' time. There is a small import of rice and other foodstuffs at present. The possibilities of increasing local production are constantly before the local Government and appropriate action taken.
§ Captain CrowderDoes the right hon. Gentleman think that in time Gambia will be able to export foodstuffs to this country?
Mr. Creech JonesYes, they will be able to do so, as they are now exporting groundnuts; they will be exporting eggs and other things also. In the meantime, a great deal of new work is proceeding with the mechanisation of rice cultivation and the development of fisheries.