25. Mr. POINTERasked the right hon. Gentleman whether he has any official information to the effect that the trigonometrical survey of Trinidad is incorrect; and, if so, in consideration of the importance of accuracy in surveying for oil, will he cause inquiry to be made?
Mr. HARCOURTThe Governor has made inquiries into an allegation that there were material errors in the trigonometrical survey of Trinidad. He satisfied himself that the allegation was not well founded, and did not consider it necessary to take any further action in the matter.
26. Mr. POINTERasked the right hon. Gentleman whether his predecessor promised to increase the Excise Duty on rum in Trinidad from 8s. 6d. to 9s. in order to balance the Import Duty on rum of 9s.; and, if so, what steps have been taken to given effect to it?
Mr. HARCOURTI am not aware that any promise was made except that the proposal to increase the Excise Duty would be considered. It was considered by the Legislative Council in 1911, but was rejected.
27. Mr. POINTERasked the number of commissioned officers in the Trinidad military establishment; the number of the rank and file outside the constabulary; what is the collective pay of officers and of men; whether they possess any guns other than those used for ceremonial purposes; and, if so, how many?
Mr. HARCOURTTwo officers and four non-commissioned officers of the Trinidad Light Infantry and Trinidad Light Horse receive pay amounting to £085 a year; the remainder are unpaid. It would be contrary to the established practice to make any public statement as regards the strength and armament of these forces.