HC Deb 02 May 1927 vol 205 cc1251-2
15. Mr. ERNEST BROWN

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what will be the composition of the Commission to be appointed to report upon the position of British settlers in the New Hebrides, with special reference to the disadvantages suffered by these British settlers as compared with the French settlers; and whether he is prepared to indicate the terms of reference to be given to this Commission?

Mr. AMERY

The composition of this Commission which sat in the New Hebrides during April was as follows:

Sir Eyre Hutson, K.C.M.G. (High Commissioner for the Western Pacific); Brigadier-General T. Griffiths, C.M.G., C.B.E., D.S.O. (Administrator of Nauru); Major-General Sir G. S. Richardson, K.C.M.G., C.B., C.B.E. (Administrator of Western Samoa).

The terms of reference were: To report upon the position of British settlers in the New Hebrides, with special reference to any disadvantages under which they may be working in comparison with French settlers. In particular to consider:

  1. (i) The provision of an adequate supply of labour for British settlers;
  2. (ii) any further measures to assist British settlers in the production and marketing of their crops.
And to indicate what financial assistance, if any, would be required from Government, whether by loan or otherwise, for carrying into effect any recommendations which the Commission may make.