§ Mr. Rankinasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the average yearly value of the output of diamonds in Sierra Leone; and on what terms and conditions the right to mine them is leased, and to whom.
§ Mr. HopkinsonThe average annual value of diamonds exported from Sierra Leone by the Sierra Leone Selection Trust Limited during the three years 1952–54 was £1,462,000. The company hold in return for substantial contributions to the revenue of Sierra Leone the sole and exclusive right to mine diamonds in the territory under the terms of agreements with the Sierra Leone Government. I am sending to the hon. Member copies of the ordinances embodying these agreements.