HC Deb 03 December 1952 vol 508 cc1538-9
11. Sir R. Acland

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will now make a statement on the Volta River Scheme.

41. Mrs. White

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how soon it is expected that the Preparatory Commission for the Volta River Scheme will begin its work.

Mr. Lyttelton

I have as yet nothing to add to the information in Cmd. 8702, but a further announcement on the steps to establish the Preparatory Commission will be made as soon as possible.

Sir R. Acland

Will the right hon. Gentleman now give his personal attention to this matter to ensure that the necessary consultation and consideration does not in any way lead to any relaxation of effort on the immediate work on Tema Harbour, which is so vital to the Colony, whatever happens to the final decision with regard to the Volta River Scheme?

Mr. Lyttelton

I reply to that question with some diffidence, but I think I can give the hon. Gentleman that assurance.

Mr. G. R. Strauss

As the Minister is no doubt aware, this encouraging work on the Volta project had been going on for some years under the previous Government. May we assume that he will take all possible steps to pilot it to a conclusion as soon as he can?

Mr. Lyttelton

Her Majesty's Government and the Gold Coast Government have both thought that a Preparatory Commission to carry the technical investigation further is desirable. I think I can say without any doubt that both Governments are anxious to press on with that scheme.