§ 4. Mr. MAXTONasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he has received any Report from the Newfoundland commissioners as to the state of affairs in the island; whether he can state the number of persons now unemployed in Newfoundland; and what steps are now taken for their relief under the new control?
Mr. J. H. THOMASThe Commissioners have not yet had time to submit any considered general report, but since the new Government in Newfoundland took office, they have recommended expenditure of $400,000 on able-bodied relief in the current financial year in addition to the $1,000,000 already incurred, and also a further $10,000 a month for relief in districts where no vegetables are available. Both proposals have been approved. I am asking the Governor for a report as to the number of persons now unemployed in Newfoundland and as to the arrangements now in force for their relief, and will communicate this information to the honourable member on its receipt.
§ Mr. LUNNCan the right hon. Gentleman tell us how long he expects this Commission to be in Newfoundland, and, if it happens to be two or three years, will there be interim reports on what they are doing?
Mr. THOMASObviously, no one could know better than my hon. Friend that Commissioners who have taken up a delicate and difficult task like this ought to be given a fair opportunity of judging 1523 the situation. In the interval I can answer specific questions. This question was directed to the facts as to unemployment, and that I have answered. Any report received will be submitted immediately I get it.
§ Mr. HANNONAre there indications in Newfoundland of an improvement in the economic situation?
§ Mr. MAXTONWhen the right hon. Gentleman says that these proposals for additional relief for the unemployed have been approved, by whom have they been approved?
Mr. THOMASAs I have explained, the expenditure is now largely governed by sanction from this country, as it has to be under the circumstances. When I said "approved," I meant that the proposals had been submitted to me and that I had approved them.
§ Sir PERCY HARRISHas every proposal for economic changes to be submitted to this country before it can be acted upon? Will not that lead to endless delays?
Mr. THOMASWe must differentiate among the proposals. If the British Government hold themselves responsible for large expenditure, they must have some voice in the control of it; but, equally, a discretion is given to the Com-missioners, and the reputation of the Commissioners is the best evidence that they will use that discretion.