§ MAJOR ANSTRUTHER-GRAY (St. Andrews Burghs)I beg to ask the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has any official information showing that French traders, alleging that gin is the only liquor prohibited in the New Hebrides, have landed large cargoes of wine, beer, and whiskey on certain of the islands; and whether he will take steps to expedite the appointment of British officials authorised to interpret and enforce the Convention.
§ MR. RUNCIMAN (for Colonel SEELY)The Secretary of State has no information to the effect stated in the first part of the hon. and gallant Member's Question. Except with the joint permission of the British and French Resident Commissioners, it is unlawful to import into the New Hebrides any gin, whiskey, brandy, or other liquor containing alcohol and used for trade. Some of the British officials required to carry out the Convention have already been appointed. The staff will be increased as it is found necessary and possible.
§ MAJOR ANSTRUTHER-GRAYWill the right hon. Gentleman cause inquiry to be made especially with regard to the island of Ambrym?
§ MR. RUNCIMANI will convey that request to my hon. and gallant friend.