HC Deb 16 December 1953 vol 522 cc355-6
2. Commander Maitland

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what transport the High Commissioner for the Western Pacific has under his own direct control and immediately available to him to enable him to visit the islands which are under his supervision.

The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Oliver Lyttelton)

Fourteen vessels ranging in size from 35 ft. to 66 ft. are available in the British Solomon Islands Protectorate. In the Gilbert and Ellice Islands Colony a further three vessels are used for touring. While some of these vessels are suitable for short distance touring there is at present no vessel available suitable for long voyages by open sea. The High Commissioner has recently submitted proposals to remedy the situation and these are being considered.

Commander Maitland

In view of the very considerable number of islands with which this high officer has to deal, their distance apart and the importance of keeping in touch with them, would it not be a good idea if he had his own small seaplane, placed under his own control, in this modern age?

Mr. Lyttelton

That is another question which I shall be very willing to look into. The present proposal is to build a 108 ft. vessel suitable for open sea.

Commander Maitland

In these days, how can we possibly spare the time of a High Commissioner to be at sea for days on end when he ought to be getting on with his job?

3. Commander Maitland

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many islands are controlled by the High Commissioner for the Western Pacific; and what is the distance from his head quarters of the furthest island.

Mr. Lyttelton

There are about 60 main islands and atolls and many others of lesser size or importance. The most outlying are the Line Islands some 3,000 miles from Honiara.

Commander Maitland

Does not that answer rather strengthen my point about using a ship to travel to and from these places, which will take a very considerable time? Surely there ought to be a small seaplane placed under his own control.

Mr. Lyttelton

I shall try to look into the matter, but there are questions of expense and other things.