Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will take steps to defer the summary removal of several thousand Africans in Lagos who it is proposed, by the end of February, to expropriate before any settlement or payment of compensation; whether any alternative accommodation exists; and what is the reason for this speedy removal, seeing that other Government quarters are available for new law courts and the present courts are sufficient?
§ Mr. Ormsby-GoreThe hon. Member appears to have been misinformed. Existing accommodation for the Supreme Court in Lagos is dilapidated and most inadequate: it has long been the subject of complaint by members of the Bar and by the public. The whole matter has been thoroughly examined by a representative committee. The first site suggested was rejected by Government be cause it involved the displacement of over 1907W 1,200 persons; the new site now chosen will affect less than 700 persons and possibly considerably fewer. I may add that no other Government quarters are available, as suggested in the question. I have approved of payment for purchase and for special compensation to private owners for loss of trade. The Governor of Nigeria reports that notice of intention to acquire the property has been given, but that occupants will not be required to move before settlement or payment of compensation which will take some time to effect. He states that there should be no difficulty in their obtaining alternative accommodation.