§ 22. Mr. Sorensenasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware of the hardship and unemployment in British Guiana; whether adequate foodstuffs and medical supplies are now available; and what action has been taken to absorb the unemployed and to meet distress in the Colony?
§ Mr. Harold MacmillanSo far as my information goes, supplies of foodstuffs and medical stores are in general available, except that there was recently a shortage of flour, which has now been relieved. With regard to the first part of the Question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I am giving today to my hon. Friend the Member for Dewsbury (Mr. Riley).
§ Mr. SorensenIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there have been signs of disturbance in this Colony, and will he make inquiries to see how far it is strained?
§ Mr. MacmillanYes, Sir. We are in touch with the situation, but the movement of foodstuffs and supplies needs constant attention and is increasingly difficult. There has been this temporary shortage, which I am glad to say has been relieved.
§ Mr. ShinwellIf there is much unemployment in the Colonies, might it not be worth while to consider whether we can use some of the man-power in certain directions in this country?
§ Mr. MacmillanThere are two purposes for which we are using it, first, in their own country, by a great drive to increase local food production. Its use outside the country is again limited by shipping difficulties.
§ Mr. MacmillanYes, Sir.