§ 38. Sir Patrick Hannonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he contemplates the continued publication of reports on the economic and social progress of the constituent communities of the Colonial Empire; what such reports are in process of preparation; and if he will indicate probable dates of issue.
§ Mr. Rees-WilliamsYes, Sir. Forty-two Colonial annual reports in the 1948 series are in preparation. It is expected that the first will be published by His Majesty's Stationery Office in June and the remainder will follow between then and the end of the year.
§ Sir P. HannonI am much obliged to the hon. Gentleman. Is he aware of the great value of these reports in times gone by to those of us who are interested in 1256 the Colonial Empire? Also will he circulate to all Members the valuable memorandum prepared by Sir William McLean at the Colonial Office?
§ Mr. Oliver StanleyCan the Under-Secretary say when we may expect publication of the annual report by the Colonial Office, as it is important to have it before we debate the Colonial Estimates?
§ Mr. Rees-WilliamsThe annual report is with the printers at the moment. I am hoping that it will not be more than two weeks before the report is in the hands of hon. Members. There is also another report in which I am sure the House will be interested, the regional report which my right hon. Friend promised last year. That will be on our Far Eastern Dependencies.
§ Mr. Hector HughesIn view of the recent great progress in the Colonies, would my hon. Friend consider extending the scope of these reports in future so as to give a better and more detailed picture of the progress which has recently been made?
§ Mr. Rees-WilliamsI think that the three types of report to which reference has been made during this Question and answer will give hon. Members all the information they desire.