§ 36. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will state the approximate calorific standard of foodstuffs now enjoyed in the four West African colonies and in Jamaica and Trinidad.
Mr. Creech JonesThe figure for Trinidad for 1944 was 2,582 calories per head per day. The figure for Jamaica in 1942 was 2,092 calories per head per day. The latter is the latest figure available, but is not regarded as entirely reliable. I regret that the information is not available in respect of the four West African Colonies.
§ Mr. SorensenCould the hon. Gentleman say whether efforts are being made to secure information on this important point, and whether he is satisfied that the standard is going to be maintained or whether the population is likely to suffer?
Mr. Creech JonesWe are taking steps, in the case of the West Indies, to improve the nutrition standard. In the case of West Africa, the problem of collecting relevant statistics is much more difficult, but, again, some new nutritional work is about to start.
§ Mr. SorensenCan we take it that a statement will be made about calorific standards?
Mr. Creech JonesIt presents some little difficulty in regard to West Africa, but we are watching the problem.