§ MAJOR ANSTRUTHER-GRAY (St. Andrews Burghs)I beg to ask the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies how many people are employed in the new flax industry in St. Helena; and whether this industry promises to expand successfully.
§ THE UNDER-SECRETARY or STATE FOR THE COLONIES (Mr. CHURCHILL, Manchester, N.W.)The Governor has not yet reported the exact number of men employed on the Government fibre mill in St. Helena. In addition to the men so employed, a considerable number of small proprietors and of those who are in the service of the large landowners must have benefitted, either directly or indirectly, through the establishment of the fibre industry. In reply to the latter part of the hon. Member's Question, it is too early as yet to say with confidence that the industry will expand successfully; the mill was only opened at the beginning of December and the first consignment of fibre and tow has only just reached the London market. The Governor reports, however, that there appears to be a general feeling in the Island that the fibre industry has come to stay; and he is himself sanguine that it will do a great deal towards placing St. Helena on her feet again.
§ *MR. CATHCART WASON (Orkney and Shetland)asked whether in view of the great success attending this industry in New Zealand the Government would obtain a report from an expert from that country?
§ MR. CHURCHILLIf my memory serves me, the industry was initiated by a gentleman from Now Zealand.