53. Captain Arthur Evansasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that Jamaica has already this year produced 20,000 tons more sugar than she is permitted to export under the International Sugar Agreement and that this surplus production amounts to approximately 25 per cent. of 848 her present export quota; and what steps he proposes to take to deal with the decreased employment which will be caused by these circumstances next year?
§ The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Malcolm MacDonald)I am informed by the Governor of Jamaica that, after the quota of 86,000 tons allotted to the Colony has been exported, there will be a surplus of 21,000 tons of sugar during the current sugar year. As has already been stated in this House in reply to questions by other hon. Members, the Governor of Jamaica is taking all possible steps to deal with the problem of unemployment, and he will no doubt take into account the position which may arise next year in consequence of the existence of this surplus.
Captain EvansIn view of the fact that these economic conditions in the West Indies generally are assuming such a grave political aspect, will my right hon. Friend consider the advisability of appointing a Royal Commission with wide terms of reference to investigate the present situation, with a view to making recommendations for the future economic prosperity of the Colonies?
§ Mr. MacDonaldI can only say that I am giving the economic situation in the West Indies my very careful consideration.
§ Mr. GallacherWill not the Minister seriously consider the necessity of having independent trade unions, so that they could reduce hours of labour and get holidays with pay to meet unemployment?
§ Mr. MacDonaldThere is nothing in the Islands to prevent the establishment of trade unions.
§ Mr. GallacherDoes that mean that there is nothing to prevent the establishment of independent, free, trade unions?