HC Deb 18 February 1931 vol 248 cc1233-4
29. Mr. HURD

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can now state the result of the consideration of the British-Canadian proposals for the development of the hinterland of British Guiana; and what is the nature of these proposals?

Dr. SHIELS

Having regard to the financial position of the Colony, acceptance of the proposals originally submitted by the interests concerned could not be recommended, and the Governor has been so advised. The hon. Member will appreciate that in these circumstances the disclosure of the details of these proposals might prejudice the possibility of further negotiations.

36. Earl WINTERTON

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies if the proposed loan to British Guiana is intended for the ordinary purposes of administration or to assist in the development of the resources of the Colony?

Dr. SHIELS

If the Noble Lord refers to the proposed loan of £50,000 to the Government of British Guiana, provision for which is included in the Supplementary Estimate for Colonial and Middle Eastern Services, it will be seen from the details under Sub-head A.8 of the printed Estimate that this loan is in aid of the expenses of administration. It does not include provision for development, towards which assistance is being provided from the Colonial Development Fund.

Earl WINTERTON

In view of the fact that this Estimate is soon to be discussed, will the hon. Gentleman say where official information on the administration of the country is to be found? I inquired at the Vote Office, and I was told that they had no record of a report for the last two years.

Dr. SHIELS

I am afraid that I cannot give a definite answer to that question, but very full information has been given in two Command Papers published recently on the West Indies, and I shall be very glad to supply the information to-morrow.

Earl WINTERTON

The information is required before the Debate takes place, and cannot the hon. Gentleman arrange to have one of the ordinary administrative reports published, as is done in the case of other colonies, and put in the Vote Office?

Dr. SHIELS

I shall be glad to look into that matter.

Forward to