§ 18. Mr. H. Hyndasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what answer he is sending to the resolution sent him by the rice growers of British Guiana asking for his assistance in getting more favourable prices.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsThe price of rice supplied by British Guiana to other West Indian territories is governed by a contract. It has been agreed that the price to be paid during the period 1952–54 should be referred to arbitration under the terms of that contract.
§ Mr. HyndIs my right hon. Friend aware that there is great concern in British Guiana at the possibility of the present prices being renewed over a further period of years, and in view of the need for more encouragement to bring 1439 the social services to something like a decent level, will he do what he can to help in this matter?
§ Mr. GriffithsAs I have already stated, they have agreed now to refer this question to arbitration.