§ 14 and 15. Mr. Beswickasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies (1) under what legislation a co-operative society can be registered in the Bahamas;
(2) how many co-operative societies are now functioning in the Bahamas.
§ 17. Mr. Owenasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what legislation exists in the Bahamas to encourage the growth of co-operative societies.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydThere are no cooperative societies in the Bahamas and no specific legislation designed to encourage their growth. If a co-operative society wishes to register as a company, it may do so under the Companies Act, chapter 124 of the Revised Laws.
§ Mr. BeswickDoes the Colonial Secretary consider that position satisfactory? Is there not a great need in the Bahamas for a co-operative society, and does not the recent trouble there show that we ought to assist these people to help themselves; and it is impossible to support a co-operative movement unless there is some protective legislation?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI hope that my visit has been of some assistance in helping people to help themselves. This was not one of the subjects under discussion, but I will certainly take it up with the Governor.
§ Mr. OwenDoes not the Minister recognise the importance of encouraging the development of co-operative effort in Colonies such as this and to pave the way by providing them with the guidance of a co-operative ordinance, such as I learn his predecessor considered a possibility?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydIn general, I agree with that, and there is a general Question on that subject later on the Order Paper.