§ 19. Viscount Hinchingbrookeasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what progress is being made in organising and delivering relief supplies to the Channel Islands.
§ Mr. H. MorrisonSince my reply to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Hornsey (Captain Gammans) on 22nd February, the "Vega" has made a further voyage, and was due to arrive in the Islands on or about 5th March with a cargo of flour, yeast, Red Cross parcels, soap, salt, medical and surgical supplies and a small quantity of petrol for the local ambulances. I hope that it will be possible in the near future to send a consignment of clothing, footwear and certain other commodities.
§ Viscount HinchingbrookeWhile thanking my right hon. Friend for that reply, may I ask whether he considers that one ship is sufficient for the purpose, and whether he would not consider using additional ships, or even aircraft?
§ Mr. MorrisonAircraft would not be suitable, and as to ships, the Ministry of War Transport are in very great difficulty about shipping. I will keep the point in mind.
§ Captain GammansCan anything be done about the evacuation of old or sick people?
§ Mr. MorrisonI answered a Question about sick people last week. We are making arrangements, where local medical facilities are not adequate, to get people evacuated to this country.
§ Earl WintertonIn view of the fact that there has been very much criticism of the Government on this matter, may I suggest that, in order to prevent a bad relationship existing between us and our fellow subjects in the Channel Islands after the war, the right hon. Gentleman might consider issuing a White Paper on the whole subject, showing the difficulties, and also what has been done?
§ Mr. MorrisonI will consider that suggestion, but I doubt whether the time would be suitable for it yet. I will keep it in mind. I thought that, broadly speaking, the islanders and their friends here were satisfied that we are doing our very best.