§ 27. Mr. HURDasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies how 995 many Jamaicans have been deported from Cuba to Jamaica on account of destitution; how many have still to be deported; and what measures are in contemplation for their maintenance in their home colony?
§ Dr. SHIELSThe Governor of Jamaica has recently reported that for the financial year 1930–31 expenditure on the repatriation of distressed Jamaicans from Cuba amounted to £7,300, and that a special officer had been appointed to assist the local authorities at Santiago de Cuba in dealing with the situation. Over 2,000 persons were repatriated to Jamaica during 1930, and in July of that year it was estimated that of the 60,000 British West Indians in Cuba, 20,000 were dependent on the sugar industry and therefore likely, in view of the depression in that industry, to apply in large numbers for repatriation. The Governor is no doubt taking suitable measures to deal with repatriated persons, but no particulars of those measures have been received.
§ Mr. HURDDoes not the hon. Gentleman think that some special action seems to be called for owing to the very large number involved in this depression?
§ Dr. SHIELSThe action is primarily one for the Government of Jamaica, and, as far as things have gone, they have found themselves capable of dealing with the situation. If they had anything further to suggest, of course we should be glad to consider it.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODWill the Under-Secretary of State tell the House why so many Jamaicans have been deported from Cuba?
§ Dr. SHIELSAs I explained before, there is a general depression in the sugar industry in the West Indies, and Cuba, in spite of some statements to the contrary in certain quarters, has suffered quite as much depression as our own islands.
§ Captain P. MACDONALDHas there been any corresponding repatriation of Cubans from British Colonies?
§ Dr. SHIELSNo, I have not heard of any.
§ Captain MACDONALDWill the hon. Gentleman look into this matter?
§ Dr. SHIELSI do not think that it is necessary.