§ 64. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many Africans now serve on the Gold Coast and Nigerian Marketing Boards, and the Sierra Leone Produce Marketing Board; 385 to what extent the legislative councils influence the policy of these boards; and if he will consider making these boards more responsible to West African Governments than to the Colonial Office.
§ Mr. J. DugdaleEach of the four Nigerian Marketing Boards has three African members, the Sierra Leone Produce Marketing Board has four and the two Gold Coast Marketing Boards have respectively five and seven. These boards were constituted by local legislation and Legislative Councils have no direct control over them. They are, however, subject in certain directions to the authority of the Governor or the Governor-in-Council. The boards are not responsible to my Department, so that the last part of the Question does not arise.
§ Mr. SorensenDo I understand from that reply that no influence is exercised by the Colonial Office on the policy of these boards? If so, is not that contrary to what was stated formerly?
§ Mr. DugdaleNo, Sir. The working of these boards is the responsibility of the Colonial Government, and the Governor is responsible for them. No interference is exercised by the Colonial Office.
§ Mr. SorensenDo I understand that the commodities with which these boards are dealing can be sent to any part of the world without any approach?
§ Mr. DugdaleThat is another question.