PRIMARY PRODUCTION
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leases are controlled by the Land Officer. Prospecting licences and mining leases are issued for periods of six months, but they are renewable for up to five years and may be even further extended with the Governor's consent. Mining leases are granted for periods up to a maximum of 21 years. Details of leases and licences in operation are published in the Government Gazette twice a year. At the end of 1961, there were three mining leases, 19 mining licences, and five prospecting licences valid for different areas throughout the territory. They were mainly controlled by indivi- duals or small mining companies.
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 value, and for issuing demand notes for royalties, rents, premia, and fees for licences and leases. The Mines Department also inspects mining areas and surveys land affected by applications for licences.