§ 46. Mr. Coldrickasked the Secetary of State for the Colonies the reasons for the cancelling of the registration of the Co-operative Wholesale Establishment on the Gold Coast; and whether he is aware of the effects this cancellation has had on consumer societies over a wide area.
§ The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Alan Lennox-Boyd)I am informed by the Government of the Gold Coast that the registration of the co-operative wholesale establishment was cancelled in 1953 with the intention of reconstituting it on different lines in a way that would quicken the development of consumer societies. The establishment was at the same time put into liquidation following an inquiry. Since then the heavy trading losses and weakness of most consumer societies have made it necessary to postpone its reconstitution indefinitely. The weakness of consumer societies is due to general causes, notably the extent of petty trading.
§ Mr. ColdrickIs the Colonial Secretary aware that the wholesale establishment was set up for the purpose of facilitating the development of consumer societies by providing them with supplies and skill? Is it not obvious that if this establishment is not quickly set going again there will 398 be dislocation among the consumer societies?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydThis, of course, is a matter for which the full responsibility lies with the Gold Coast Government, but I will draw their attention to the observations of the hon. Gentleman.