Mr. David Adamsasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he is prepared to consider a change in the financial arrangements between Northern Rhodesia and this country whereby almost 60 per cent. of the total tax yield from the coppermining industry of Northern Rhodesia is paid to the United Kingdom Government and to the British South Africa Company, leaving this colony unable to make reasonable plans for the future development of its essential social services and of its economic resources; and if, in view of the fact that the financial situation of the colony is dependent on the world price of copper, he is prepared to give an assurance that, in accordance with the recommendation of the commission of inquiry into the financial and economic position of Northern Rhodesia, short-falls of revenue in the colony shall not be allowed to hamper necessary expansion, even if this means help from the British Treasury?
Mr. MacDonald:I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given on 11th May to the hon. Member for Wentworth (Mr. Paling). I cannot at present add anything to that reply.