§ 22. Mr. DAYasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies what improvements have taken place with reference to the inter-island communication by establishing a chain of wireless stations in the Solomon Islands; whether the recommendations contained in the report on the disturbances in these islands have been carried out; and can he give particulars?
§ Dr. SHIELSI regret to have to say that the straitened position of the finances of the Protectorate has made it necessary to postpone action upon the proposal for a chain of wireless stations, and certain of the other recommendations in the report which involve additional expenditure. The new Resident Commissioner has been enjoined to give particular attention to the native administration side of his duties, and to issue explicit directions for the guidance of district officers as to the manner in which legislation closely affecting the natives is to be applied. Directions have also been given that native police patrols are to be used as sparingly as possible, and that when they are used they shall as far as practicable be composed of native police who are conversant with the customs and speak the language of the people to whom they are sent.
§ Mr. DAYCan my hon. Friend say what would have been the cost of the wireless chain stations recommended in the report.
§ Dr. SHIELSNo, Sir; I am afraid that I should require notice of that question.
§ Dr. SHIELSI must have notice of that question.