§ 18. Mr. Owenasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many Colonies have not got a co-operative ordinance: and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydNine territories have not got a co-operative ordinance or other legislation. In one of these an ordinance is at present in draft. In the majority of the Colonial Territories there is now legislation based generally on the model Co-operative Societies Ordinance circulated by one of my predecessors in 1946. In one or two instances the legislation in force departs somewhat from this model. Whilst I attach much importance to the development of cooperative societies in the Colonial Territories, the hon. Member will realise that the question whether any legislation is needed or the form of it are matters for individual Colonial Governments to decide.
§ Mr. OwenSurely the Secretary of State realises that in order that co-operative efforts may be developed in the Colonies it is essential that there should be some legal guidance and protection? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, in many of these Colonies, such protection has been secured from a co-operative ordinance? In so far as it is now recognised that there are many Colonies without this guidance, will the right hon. Gentleman reconsider the matter and see whether it is possible to provide it?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI certainly will. I should like to have a talk with the hon. Member about this.