§ 31. Mr. Geoffrey Cooperasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will arrange with Colonial Governments for the publication of a monthly Colonial Statistical Digest similar to the Digest of Statistics for this country published by the Central Statistical Office.
Mr. Creech JonesI am considering the possibility of publishing a Bulletin of Colonial Statistics at regular intervals. But I do not think we shall be able to attain immediately anything so ambitious as the frequency of publication suggested by my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. CooperWhile appreciating the intention indicated by my right hon. Friend in his reply, may I ask him if he realises that very often important statistical data is as much as from 12 to 18 months out of date, and that it prevents plans being made intelligently by those who would be willing to take part in Colonial development?
Mr. Creech JonesI know the problem. In most of our Colonies there is considerable difficulty in collecting and presenting statistics, but we are doing all we can to induce Colonial Governments to give some attention to the importance of preparation and publication.
§ Mr. David EcclesIs the Secretary of State aware that 18 months ago, when the Statistics of Trade Bill was going through this House, the Government promised information of this kind? What have they done in the 18 months to carry out that promise?
Mr. Creech JonesA great deal has been done. This Question relates to Colonial statistics. They are being prepared and, as I have said in reply to the Question, they will be presented.