§ Mr. HANNONasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has been advised of the intention of the Government of Nigeria to raise a loan of £4,650,000 in Great Britain, the proceeds to be devoted to railway construction,
1172Wthe past five years and, for contrast, a similar table for Cuba?
§ Dr. SHIELSI annex a statement giving the information for the West Indian Islands and Bermuda. With regard to Cuba, the inquiry should be addressed to the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs.
waterworks, bridges, and a sewerage scheme for Lagos; and if he will endeavour that as large a proportion of this loan as possible will be spent upon contracts in this country, in order to increase the openings for employment of persons now unemployed?
§ Dr. SHIELSThe Nigerian Government took power in October last to issue a loan of the amount and for the objects stated. As regards the railways, they have already been constructed and are open to traffic, and the funds raised by the loan will be used to repay the cost of construction which has been advanced from Nigeria's surplus balance pending flotation of the loan. In accordance with the usual policy, all material required for the works in question will be purchased in this country so far as possible. Of the two large bridges, the one over the Benue river is being constructed by 1173W Messrs. Arrol and Sons under contract, and the other is being constructed by the Colonial Government direct. The loan was opened for subscription on 17th February.