Mr. Creech Jones:

The coal resources in Nigeria are thought to be substantial but no real estimate of their extent has yet been made or can be made until the geological survey of the probable areas has been completed. This is in hand but I fear will take some time yet to carry through. Both the Governor and myself are alive to the importance and prospects of this industry but at the moment increased production and export from the existing coalfield depend largely on the capacity of the railway and port to handle larger quantities and this aspect of the matter is receiving attention. Orders have already been placed for additional locomotives and equipment and delivery should begin very soon.