§ 34. Mr. Swinglerasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many circulars have been sent to the Governor of the Leeward Islands during the past nine months; and if he will give a list of the subjects with which they dealt.
Mr. Creech JonesBetween 1st May, 1948, and 31st January, 1949, 143 circular despatches were sent to Colonial Governors including the Governor of the Leeward Islands. They dealt with the following subjects: Agriculture and economic, 15; Communications, 19; Colonial Service, 18; Education, 13; Information, 10; International, 12; Security, 15; Social Services, 16; and Miscellaneous, 25.
§ Mr. SwinglerIs my right hon. Friend really satisfied that all these circulars were really necessary?
Mr. Creech JonesThese circulars are absolutely essential in order that local Governments may be kept well informed of events at this end in respect to the problems they themselves are handling. On questions of Colonial service, economic control, communications, and so on, this supply of information is vital to ensure the efficient working of Colonial Government.
§ Mr. StanleyWould not a similar question addressed to any of the right hon. Gentleman's colleagues show that the unfortunate people of this country are afflicted by a far greater number of circulars from other Departments of the Government?