§ 99. Mr. MITCHELL-THOMSONasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can give any further information as to the extent of the disasters in Jamaica and the measures which are being taken for relief of distress?
Mr. HARCOURTI have received from the Governor of Jamaica two telegrams as follows:—
"Your telegram of 23rd November; no loss of life reported Europeans."
"Parishes of St. James's, Hanover, and Westmoreland suffered from two periods hurricane intensity Sunday 17th and Monday, 18th; all bananas in these parishes totally destroyed, bread-fruit, cocoanuts and ground provisions seriously damaged and native food supply crippled. Conditions of a similar kind to that of Eastern parishes after 1903. Hurricane flooded gullies, destroyed houses, recklessly placed in them; loss of life, Montego Bay, about 40; about 15 reported elsewhere; other casualties not extensive; canefields Westmoreland harried by wind, but will recover to a large extent for crop; some in St. James damaged by flood debris; some sugar works destroyed, new factories stood well; as usual, destruction of flimsy and decayed tenements Savanna-la-mar, Lucca and country. Relief arrangements organised on lines followed in 1903 and will be financed from Colony's insurance fund. Military authorities have kindly and promptly lent tents and offered assistance; people rebuilding houses and shelters and will be helped by local committees. Loss of planters will be heavy and no doubt that public revenue will be impaired, but 826 I do not expect serious embarrassment to administration. His Majesty's ship "Æolus" now here and also kindly offered assistance."