HC Deb 22 April 1953 vol 514 cc1157-8
28. Mr. R. Robinson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether an experienced agricultural officer has yet been appointed as development officer in St. Lucia.

Mr. Lyttelton

No, Sir. I am anxious that this post should be filled as soon as possible, but as I stated in reply to the hon. Member for The Hartlepools (Mr. D. Jones) on 10th November, it is difficult to find a man with the requisite special experience of agriculture and development work in the tropics. Several people approached have declined or proved not to be available.

29. Mr. R. Robinson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies when it is proposed to commence work on the new roads planned in connection with the proposed agricultural development of St. Lucia.

Mr. Lyttelton

Grants from colonial development and welfare funds amounting to some £58,000 have been made for the construction and improvement of roads and tracks, and work has already begun. A further sum of £92,000 is earmarked for the same purpose.