HC Deb 06 April 1949 vol 463 cc2055-6
77. Major Beamish

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a statement on his immediate plans to proceed with under-water boring for oil along the coast of the Leeward Islands; what will be the approximate cost of this project over the next five years; and when boring is to commence.

Mr. Rees-Williams

My right hon. Friend is consulting the Governor and will communicate with the hon. and gallant Member when his reply has been received.

Major Beamish

Are we really to understand that although the Governor has stated that this is an immediate project, the Colonial Office has no knowledge of it? Is not that a most extraordinary state of affairs?

Mr. Rees-Williams

That is not the case. The Governor has been asked to consult the Director of the British Guiana Geological Survey with regard to taking the necessary steps.

Major Beamish

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that, on his return to the Leeward Islands recently, the Governor stated that this was an immediate project?

Mr. Rees-Williams

That is what I have said. We have asked the Governor to consult the Director with a view to getting on with it.