§ MR. ALDEN (Middlesex, Tottenham)I beg to ask the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies if, in view of the fact that a heavy export duty was imposed about three years ago upon exports from the Island of Montserrat because the finances then showed a deficiency, he will favourably consider the removal of this impost in view of the large surplus which now exists.
§ COLONEL SEELYThe Governor has reported that nothing would give him greater pleasure than to recommend a reduction of taxation in Montserrat, but that the time for such a recommendation has not yet arrived. The surplus funds of the Presidency do not greatly exceed £5,000, and a reserve fund of £10,000 is aimed at as a measure of obvious prudence. I can only promise that the 775 matter will not be lost sight of when a sufficient reserve has been built up.