§ 34. Mr. Grimondasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has any further information as to when eggs may first reach this country from the Gambia Poultry Project; and what his estimate is of the total number of eggs which may be imported annually from Gambia when the scheme is in full operation.
Mr. DugdaleWe understand that both eggs and poultry will probably be available for import into this country next June. As regards the second part of this Question, the total number of eggs available for import when the scheme is in full operation is estimated at 20 million a year.
§ Mr. GrimondIn view of the great possibilities of increasing egg production at home, and the difficulties with 950 which I understand this scheme has met over soil erosion and vitamin deficiencies in the hens, does not the Minister feel that these eggs might be rather more easily got in our own country and that possibly Gambia might be helped more satisfactorily in other ways?
Mr. DugdaleNo, Sir. I think that this scheme is starting off very successfully, and I hope that it will succeed and produce more eggs for this country.
§ Mr. RussellIs the Minister satisfied that there will be adequate feedingstuffs available for this scheme?
Mr. DugdaleAs far as I know but, as far as possible, I should like questions of detail to be asked of the responsible body, which is the Colonial Development Corporation. I am only responsible here for questions of general principle.
§ Sir H. WilliamsHas the right hon. Gentleman had his attention drawn to the fact that there has been a very great increase in the number of baboons in the Gambia territory which have consumed half the groundnut crop there, and will he take steps to see that they do not consume the eggs as well?