HC Deb 25 July 1951 vol 491 cc461-2
39. Mr. Steward

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps he is taking to ensure that British capital invested by the Colonial Development Corporation in British Colonial Territories is safeguarded in the event of self-government being granted to any particular Colony.

Mr. Cook

When any British colonial territory becomes self-governing, the nature of the steps which it may be desirable or appropriate to take to protect United Kingdom investments, including those of the Colonial Development Corporation, in that territory will depend on the circumstances at that time.

Mr. Steward

Is the Under-Secretary aware that a certain Mr. Josey has stated on the Malayan radio that in certain eventualities the rubber industry would be nationalised? Is the hon. Gentleman satisfied, in view of the fact that considerable sums are being invested in that Colony, that the necessary safeguards are being taken to protect those investments?

Mr. Cook

There is another Question on that point on the Order Paper.