§ 37. Mr. Geoffrey Cooperasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he has a statement to make with regard to the museum at Ife, Nigeria, which was constructed by the Public Works Department at a cost of over £8,000, and the roof of which fell in immediately after completion: what will be the total cost of the building when safe and ready for occupation: and what will be the total time then taken from commencement of building to completion.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsThe museum at Ife was finished early in 1949. A year later defects appeared in the roof, which had to be stripped and dismantled. I understand that the museum was to be opened in August, 1950, but I have asked the Governor for further information on this and other points and will write to my hon. Friend when it is received.
§ Mr. CooperSince these treasures, which are not only of interest to Nigeria but of international interest, might well have been damaged by what happened, would the Minister ask the Governor to look into the standards of work of the Public Works Department there?
§ Mr. GriffithsYes, I will.