§ 11. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the President of the Board of Trade how many British Trade Commissioners there are in Gambia; and what is the extent of their staffs and the scope of their work.
§ Sir D. EcclesUnited Kingdom trade with Gambia is not on a scale which would justify stationing a Trade Commissioner there. The Trade Commissioner in Accra is responsible for dealing with trade matters arising in Gambia, and the Financial Secretary of the Gambia Government acts as his local representative.
§ Mr. Hector HughesDoes not the right hon. Gentleman realise that in Gambia foreign countries, notably certain European countries, are increasing their trade successfully in competition with British trade? Since energetic measures must be taken to promote increased British trade there, will he appoint another Trade Commissioner?
§ Sir D. EcclesCertainly, we want to get a good share of this trade, but it is a question whether there really is work for a separate office and Trade Commissioner. I will look into the question.