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PRIMARY PRODUCTION
for the issue of prospecting and mining licences by the Commis- sioner of Mines and of mining leases by the Land Officer. An amending ordinance became law in August to repair shortcomings shown up in the principal ordinance by some years of experience of administering it. Prospecting and mining licences are issued for periods of six months but are renewable up to two years and five years respectively. Under the amendments, further extensions up to not more than five years and ten years respectively are now allowed with the consent of the Governor. Details are published twice a year in the Government Gazette of the mining leases and licences and prospecting licences in operation on 1st January and 1st July.
The Superintendent of Mines grants mine blasting certificates and examines export licences for minerals mined locally. He is responsible for assessing royalties on mineral sales, at a rate of 5% of the value, and for issuing demand notes for royalties, rents, premia, and fees for licences and leases. His Department also inspects mining areas and surveys land affected by applications for, or grants of, such licences.
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