29. Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Undersecretary of State for Dominion Affairs why Mr. J. H. Gorvin was withdrawn from his post as Commissioner in Newfoundland; whether he is aware of the dismay and disappointment such a change has caused to many responsible organisations in that Dominion and of the excellent practical achievements brought about by his work; and what steps are being taken to continue the services Mr. Gorvin was able to offer?
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs (Mr. Shakespeare)Owing to the changed position brought about by the war, the Newfoundland Government found it impossible to carry out fully the special reconstruction programme which Mr. Gorvin had planned and which he went to Newfoundland to put into effect. It was felt, therefore, that he could give more useful service under existing conditions by returning to resume duty in this country. The Secretary of State has been very glad to see the tributes to Mr. Gorvin's work which have been received from various bodies in Newfoundland. Provision for the continuance of reconstruction work, on the modified scale necessary in present circumstances, has been included in the recent Newfoundland Budget.
Mr. Creech JonesWill my hon. Friend's Department do all that is possible to encourage the further developments which Mr. Gorvin has introduced?
§ Mr. ShakespeareYes; subject to the necessary limitation imposed by war-time conditions, that is; the intention of the Government.
§ Earl WintertonIs my hon. Friend aware that those of us who have been to Newfoundland and have seen the appalling conditions prevailing there are anxious that the work should be continued after the war? Will it be carried on as a long-term policy?
§ Mr. ShakespeareYes, Sir, that development will be continued.