32. Mr. Fraserasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the sugar industry of British Guiana cannot offer wages affording a reasonable standard of living to the workpeople employed; and whether, in view of the desirability of retaining the maximum production in the economic prosperity of the territory, he will consider the nationalisation of the industry.
§ Colonel StanleyWage rates paid to labour in the British Guiana Sugar industry compare favourably with those in other sugar producing Colonies, but the chief difficulty facing the industry is a shortage of labour, owing to the competing needs of food production for local consumption and other important purposes. Wages have already been increased on more than one occasion during the war. As the average turn-out is now Men, 2.3 days per week, Women 1.45 days per week further increases would not necessarily tend to improve the labour supply. The answer to the last part of this Question is in the negative.
Mr. FraserDoes not the right hon. and gallant Gentleman agree that the reason for the shortage of labour in this industry is that the conditions are not comparable with those in other employments in the Colony? Is he not aware that the living accommodation afforded to these workers who are resident employees is dilapidated and un- 843 inhabitable and it is alleged cannot be reserved because the money is not in the industry?
§ Colonel StanleyThat is rather a long supplementary question. Perhaps the hon. Member will put it down.
§ Mr. SorensenHas the increase in wages been commensurate with the increase in the cost of living?
§ Colonel StanleyPerhaps the hon. Member will put that question down.