Captain TERRELLasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the contract has been let for the construction of the deep-sea pier at Kilindini; whether this work is entirely exclusive of all railway work which is to be carried out by the Uganda Railway; whether the sum is more than the amount allocated from the loan; whether it thus means a larger loan or the sacrifice of more vital roads and railways; and whether, in view of the strong local opposition to the whole scheme, on the ground that it 2371W is extravagant and inopportune, and of the financial condition of the Colony, he will suspend the entire undertaking?
Mr. WOODYes, Sir, the contract for the construction of the deep water pier, at Kilindini has now been let. Under the contract the Government reserve the right to construct the railways themselves or may require the contractors to construct them. The sum for which the contract has been let is necessarily greater than the original estimate in 1914, owing to the rise in the cost of labour and materials, and the question whether it will be possible to find funds for the remaining scheme of development is now engaging my careful consideration. I am not aware what are the grounds for the suggestion contained in the last part of my hon. Friend's question. The proposal has the support of the Chambers of Commerce, and I am not prepared to suspend the undertaking which I am satisfied is essential to the future development of the country.