31. Mr. David Adamsasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether alternative forms of employment are being found for women now engaged in coal bunkering at St. Lucia, West Indies; and whether, to relieve the high prevalence of unemployment, generally, inquiries are being instituted into the possibilities of new industries and with what result?
§ Mr. Harold MacmillanInquiry has already been made of the Governor of the Windward Islands on the subject of the employment of women in St. Lucia. The Governor's reply has not yet been received. The possibility of agricultural development is at present receiving the attention of the Comptroller for Development and Welfare in the West Indies and his advisers.
Mr. AdamsWill not the Minister agree that there is urgent need for alternative employment, on account of the high rate of unemployment?
§ Mr. MacmillanOh yes, Sir, it is indeed a problem.
§ Mr. MacmillanYes, Sir.