British West Africa (Concessions)

25.

Mr. TOUCHE
asked whether any concessions, privileges, or rights in British West Africa were applied for by any other parties during the period covered by the correspondence with Messrs. Lever Brothers, Limited; and were they dealt with in a similar manner?

Mr. HARCOURT
During the period referred to I received no application for any concession in British West Africa similar to that made by Messrs. Lever Brothers.

Mr. TOUCHE
Has the right hon. Gentleman received any notification to the effect that no applications have been made, because it was understood that it was contrary to the policy of the Government to grant exclusive privileges?

Mr. HARCOURT
No, Sir, not within my recollection.

Mr. TOUCHE
Perhaps the right hon. Gentleman will inquire.

26.

Mr. TOUCHE
asked the nature and extent of all rights, privileges, or concessions, other than those relating to railways, granted or promised to Messrs. Lever Brothers, Limited, or associated firms, in any West African Colonies or Protectorates up to the present time?

Mr. HARCOURT
The only grants which have come to my knowledge are those contemplated in Cd. 6561.

Mr. TOUCHE
Will the right hon. Gentleman keep in view the fact that when the correspondence was published nothing definite or final had been decided upon, and can he say whether any progress has been made since that date?

Mr. HARCOURT
I must have notice on the question of progress.

27.

Mr. TOUCHE
asked what licences have been granted or promised to Messrs. Lever Brothers, Limited, or their associated firms, to construct railways in any West African Colony or Protectorate?

Mr. HARCOURT
The only promise made is that contained in the letter of 18th December printed on page 45 of Cd. 6561. So far as I am aware, Messrs. Lever  Brothers have not yet made any application for a licence.