HC Deb 19 January 1944 vol 396 cc181-2
69. Sir P. Hannon

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a statement on the formation and objects of the system of West Indian conferences which, in conjunction with the U.S.A., he proposes to establish for the promotion of the social and economic interests of Caribbean countries.

Colonel Stanley

Yes, Sir, I am circulating in the OFFICIAL REPORT the full communiqué about the setting-up of the system of West Indian Conferences, which explains fully the reason for their establishment. His Majesty's Government have for some time had under consideration, in consultation with the United States Government the desirability of associating public opinion in the West Indian Colonies more directly with the work of the Anglo-American Caribbean Commission, and I hope that the system of conferences now agreed will enable this to be done and will offer a prospect of fruitful collaboration between the various Colonies and territories in the Caribbean area.

Sir P. Hannon

Will the Secretary of State receive the support and co-operation of the people of the West Indies?

Colonel Stanley

I certainly hope so.

Following is the communiqué.

The United Kingdom and the United States Governments have agreed to set up a regular system of West Indian Conferences under the auspices of the Anglo-American Caribbean Commission to discuss matters—chiefly of a social or economic nature—of common interest to all Caribbean countries. The Conferences will be purely advisory and delegates will have no executive powers unless specifically entrusted with them by their governments. Each territory or group of territories in the Caribbean area will be entitled to send two representatives, of whom one will normally be an unofficial. It is hoped to hold the first conference early this year. Subjects of discussion will include the question of supplies for development and welfare work, the stabilisation of prices of locally produced foodstuffs for local consumption, the maintenance of local food production after the war, and fisheries research. Although the conferences will begin with British and United States participation only, it will be open to them to invite representatives from other countries to attend. A central secretariat will be provided by the Anglo-American Caribbean Commission.