HC Deb 05 May 1943 vol 389 c163
73. Mr. Hannah

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what action the Government propose to take over the Stockdale Report; and how much of the money voted for the West Indies has been spent on relieving unemployment and raising the social and economic condition of the people of those islands?

Colonel Stanley

Many of the schemes recommended in the Stockdale Report have been approved, and are in operation; others are under discussion with the Governors or otherwise under active consideration. In some cases, there are difficulties owing to the shortage of personnel or supplies. All expenditure on approved schemes is directed towards the improvement of social or economic conditions. In many cases schemes operate in relief of unemployment, but it is not possible to assess separately the amounts so expended.

Mr. Hannah

Has all the money voted for this purpose been actually expended in the islands?

Colonel Stanley

I think that if the hon. Gentleman had read the two days' Debate we had on this subject, he would see the position set out very clearly.