§ MR. HOGANI beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has noted the fact that, in the Annual Report on the Virgin Islands, the financial condition of the group is described as one of literal insolvency; and whether he is prepared to act on the recommendation of the Government that the Federal Debt be wiped off by the Imperial Government?
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES (Mr. J. CHAMBERLAIN,) Birmingham, W.I have read the Report referred to by the honourable Member. The financial condition of the Virgin Islands has for some time past engaged my careful attention, and on the 14th March last this House, on my recommendation, made provision for clearing off the deficiency in the treasury of these Islands amongst others of the West Indian Colonies. The presidency is now, I believe, free from debt.