§ 34. Mr. Thomas Fraserasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware of the deep concern in Trinidad at the growth of unemployment following on the completion of the work on the American bases; and whether plans are afoot to absorb the labour becoming redundant.
§ Colonel StanleyThe Government of Trinidad is fully aware of the need to deal by all available means with the situation resulting from the release of labour from the United States base. Over 3,000 workers have been absorbed by local food production alone and the process continues. Agriculture generally, and the sugar industry in particular, are still in a position to offer employment. The number of workers who have so far registered as unemployed has been small. The Government have a considerable works programme in hand which should meet demands for employment which are expected later. That programme depends on supplies of material and equipment which the Trinidad Government are making every effort to obtain.
§ Mr. FraserDo I understand the Minister to say that the unemployment problem in Trinidad is not giving cause for alarm?
§ Colonel StanleyI said that the number of workmen who have been registered was so far small. The hon. Member will realise that they have behind them a continuous period of employment at good wages and, for that reason, they have not registered.
Sir A. EvansWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that sugar production in the island of Trinidad has fallen by approximately half, owing to the shortage of labour, and that, even 184 to-day, they are short of about 12,000 or 15,000 for the production of sugar alone?