HC Deb 05 April 1939 vol 345 cc2769-70
42. Mr. Ridley

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what information he has as to the social and economic position in St. Helena, particularly relating to unemployment and infantile mortality, and the social services available for dealing with these problems?

Mr. M. MacDonald

The Governor submitted a comprehensive report on the social and economic position in St. Helena in a despatch dated 20th August last year, a copy of which has been placed in the Library of the House. With regard to infantile mortality, the latest available figures are for 1937, when the rate was approximately 45 per 1,000 births. As to the action now being taken to improve conditions in the island, I would invite the hon. Member's attention to the replies which I gave to the questions asked by the hon. Member for Kirkdale (Sir R. Rankin) on 22nd December and 22nd February. In addition I have recently approved a grant of children's allowances for the families of men who are in receipt of relief. As regards health services, one infant welfare clinic was established in 1938; and I have now approved the opening of a second and the appointment of the necessary staff.

Mr. Ridley

Having regard to the very considerable uneasiness which exists in the minds of many people about the social conditions in this small Dependency, will the right hon. Gentleman arrange for an independent inquiry to be made by this House in order that active steps may be taken in the matter?

Mr. MacDonald

I do not think such a step is necessary. At the present time, my chief agricultural adviser and another representative of the Colonial Office are in the Island conducting an examination into the situation, and I expect a report from them in the very near future.

Mr. Ridley

Will the terms of the report be made available to hon. Members after the Government have had an opportunity of considering it?

Mr. MacDonald

I will consider that when I receive the report. As was indicated in my original reply, there is available in the Library a very recent report on the whole matter from the Governor of the Colony.