HC Deb 28 February 1951 vol 484 cc2062-3
37. Mr. G. P. Stevens

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how far cocoa farmers in Nigeria are still objecting to the cutting out of trees infected with swollen shoot; and whether working gangs are still being withdrawn in consequence of this opposition.

Mr. J. Griffiths

Opposition to the work of both survey teams and cutting-out gangs is now of negligible proportions. Cutting-out is being carried on in a systematic manner.

Mr. Keeling

Can the Secretary of State give a little more information as to how the opposition was overcome, because as recently as five months ago we were told by the Department of Agriculture that hardly a week goes by without some incident and the withdrawal of the labour gangs?

Mr. Griffiths

Yes, we are carrying on a continuous educational campaign to explain why we have perforce to adopt this policy.

Mr. Sorensen

Do those who have cooperated in giving explanations include a number of Africans?

Mr. Griffiths

Yes, Sir.