Mr. KINGasked the Secretary for the Colonies whether the English church at Lagos is being built by the public works department of the Colony to the exclusion of all contractors; how much has been expended on the building, and how much of the cost has been contributed from voluntary sources and how much from public funds; what will be the total estimated cost of the building and when is it intended to complete it; and what was the amount actually received from voluntary sources towards building this church up to 31st December, 1910?
Mr. HARCOURTThe church is being erected by the Public Works Department without the employment, of contractors. Up to 31st December last the total expenditure was £645 8s. 6d. The total receipts were: From private subscriptions, £1,543 17s. 8d. (all paid, no promised subscriptions remaining unpaid); Government Grant, £1,500. Total receipts, £3,043 17s. 8d. The intention is, I understand, to erect a portion only of the building immediately, at an estimated cost of £2,200, the remainder being constructed when more funds are available. It was announced in 993W November last that for £4,000 a church could be completed sufficiently for use, but it is impossible to say when this will be carried out. I may add that full statements as to receipts and expenditure are published quarterly in the Government Gazettes, which I shall be happy to lend my hon. Friend if he desires it.