§ 9. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will state, to the latest convenient date, the progress made with the schemes for railway construction and development in the Gold Coast.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydA line thirty-six miles long connecting the new port of Tema to the existing system was completed last year. Seventeen miles of single track between Takoradi and Tarkwa have been converted to double track. A new link line of fifty-one miles, which will reduce the distance by rail between Takoradi and Accra by 165 miles, will be completely early next year. Twelve diesel-electric locomotives and considerable quantities of new passenger and goods rolling stock have been delivered.
§ Mr. HughesWhile thanking the right hon. Gentleman for that comprehensive Answer, may I ask him if he can give an estimate as to when the whole work will be completed?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI imagine that in this, as in so many other fields, the task is never really finally done.
§ Mr. BrockwayCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether this extraordinary development, characteristic of other developments under the Gold Coast Government, does not prove that the people of the Gold Coast are ready for self-government?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI think that they have done a remarkably good job.