§ 10. Mr. Marquandasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations how many concessions to prospect and mine for diamonds in Basutoland are still valid; and how many of these are at present being worked.
§ Mr. BraineOne concession to prospect and mine for diamonds has been granted.
§ Mr. MarquandAre there no outstanding concessions now which are not being worked? Is the hon. Gentleman aware that I have received rather disturbing information which suggests that there is one which has been outstanding for years and has not been worked? Would he not agree that it is thoroughly desirable that all concessions likely to prove fruitful should be now worked in the interests of the people of Basutoland?
§ Mr. BraineI entirely agree with the last part of the supplementary question. The new draft agreement, which is a very long and complicated document, is being examined now by a Select Committee of the Basutoland National Council.
§ Mr. MarquandIs it a draft agreement to extend a concession which has been in existence for several years and has not been used?
§ Mr. BraineI do not know. I think that the right hon. Gentleman should put a Question on the Order Paper on that point. Nor do I think that I should comment at this stage on a matter which is before the Select Committee of the Basutoland National Council.