HC Deb 03 February 1930 vol 234 cc1501-2
72. Sir W. MITCHELL - THOMSON

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the Report of Lord Olivier upon the economic situation of the sugar industry in the West Indies has been presented to the Secretary of State; and when it will be published?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Dr. Drummond Shiels)

The Commission's Report, when completed, is expected to be of considerable length. Only a part has yet been received by my Noble Friend. The date of receipt of the complete Report is not yet certain, and I am not in a position to make a statement on the question of publication.

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

Is it not the fact that the Government have had a telegraphic summary of this Report since the 31st December, Lord Olivier having stated that he had telegraphed to them on that date; and have- not the Government yet made up their minds as to the date at which publication will be possible?

Dr. SHIELS

It is quite obvious that we must await the full Report before we can come to any decision on an important matter of this kind.

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

I suppose it is quite certain that Members of this House will have an opportunity of seeing the terms of the Report?

Mr. MILLS

Are we to understand from the right hon. Gentleman's supplementary question—[Interruption.]—that the Government are asked to act upon telegraphic summaries?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

May I have a definite answer to a definite question: Is this House going to see the terms of Lord Olivier's Report?

Dr. SHIELS

Yes, I expect that the' Report will be published in due course.

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Is the hon. Gentleman fully advised of the desperate condition of these West Indian islands?

Dr. SHIELS

Yes, Sir.