§ 34. Mr. Barrasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether any schemes have been submitted to the Government of British Guiana by the East Indian Association, or by other bodies or persons, for settling small proprietors on the numerous derelict estates in that colony; and what is his attitude towards the question of such settlement?
Mr. M. McDonaldI am not aware of any such schemes, but I understand that the possibility of establishing a cane farm settlement on two estates now in process of abandonment is being investigated. As regards the second part of the question, I should be prepared to give sympathetic consideration to any schemes that may be put forward by the Governor.
§ Mr. PalingIn view of the hopeless and destitute condition of thousands of people in the East Indies, will the right hon. Gentleman take the initiative in this matter and see whether some of these schemes can be put into operation in order to provide these people with employment and the means of living?
§ Mr. PalingIs it not a fact that some of these suggestions have been made for years and that nothing has come of them? Will not the right hon. Gentleman give the matter his personal consideration and see that something is done?
Mr. MacDonaldYes, certainly, but there are practical difficulties in the way. So far as help to the local population can be given, we are very sympathetic to the principle.