§ 65. Mr. HANNONasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been called to the decline in the public revenue of Jamaica during the past year; if a readjustment of import tariffs is now proposed in order to meet this deficit; if the subsidy to the sugar industry is to be discontinued; and how the Government propose to deal with the situation which has been created?
§ Dr. SHIELSYes, Sir. My Noble Friend is aware that the estimates for the current financial year of the Colony allowed for a deficit largely if not entirely due to the heavy commitments of the Government in respect of the subsidy to the sugar industry. Specific proposals for meeting any deficit which may eventuate have not recently been submitted, but on the information before him my Noble Friend is assured that the Colonial Government is fully alive to the possibility that it may become necessary to impose additional taxation; and this question, together with that of any further extension of temporary assistance to the sugar industry, continues to engage the anxious consideration of the Government of Jamaica. No official information has reached him regarding any proposal to readjust import tariffs, but no doubt that and other possible sources of increased revenue has been or will be considered by the Governor and his advisers.
§ Mr. HANNONWill the hon. Gentleman undertake to consider any proposals which the Government of Jamaica may submit with reference to their economic condition?
§ Dr. SHIELSYes, Sir.