§ 59. Mr. J. Johnsonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what moneys have been given to the Governments of Northern Rhodesia and Nyasaland, respectively, by the Rhodesian Selection Trust group of companies for African development and welfare in these protectorates; and for what purposes these moneys will be spent.
§ Mr. HareThe companies have agreed to lend £2 million to Northern Rhodesia and £1 million to Nyasaland on favourable terms. In both territories the money will be used to meet the capital costs of general development projects for the benefit of the African population. These projects because of their non-revenue-earning character, might otherwise have been difficult to finance. In Northern Rhodesia it will be used particularly for the development of rural areas away from the line of rail. I am sure that hon. Members will join with me in thanking the companies for their generosity in concluding these arrangements.