HC Deb 22 March 1950 vol 472 cc1964-5
55. Mr. John Grimston

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies when he hopes to be able to report on the suitability of the Volta river project in the Gold Coast as a sterling area source of aluminium.

Mr. J. Griffiths

A survey of the potentialities of the Volta river is at present in progress; this covers not only the possibility of developing hydro-electric power, but also the requirements of irrigation and navigation. I do not expect the report of the survey for several months, and until it has been received and considered I can make no statement.

Mr. Grimston

While thanking die right hon. Gentleman for his reply, may I ask if he is aware that this project has been under survey by a very reputable firm for three years? Is it not time that he hurried his new survey up, so as to get some result?

Mr. Griffiths

Yes; I am looking into the matter to see if it can be expedited.