HC Deb 15 December 1954 vol 535 cc1766-7
25 and 27. Mr. Crouch

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies (1) what amount of bauxite has been produced in Jamaica during each of the last three years;

(2) what plans have been made for increased production of bauxite in Jamaica; to which countries it will be exported; and which countries are supplying the capital.

Mr. Hopkinson

Production of bauxite in Jamaica has increased substantially since it was first mined in commercial quantities in 1952. Four hundred and sixty-five thousand one hundred and fifty-seven long tons were exported in the 12 months ended March, 1953, 1,441,409 long tons in the next 12 months, and 900,553 in the six months ended September this year. In addition, 34,785 long tons of alumina—produced from bauxite—were exported in the year ended March, 1954, and 32,493 in the following six months.

One Canadian and two United States companies are operating. Export is to Canada and the United States. I have no information as to the companies' plans for a further increase in production.

Mr. Crouch

While I welcome this reply, may I ask my right hon. Friend what a long ton is?

Mr. Hopkinson

I am afraid that I should require notice of that question.

26. Mr. Crouch

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many workers are engaged in the production of bauxite in Jamaica; how many are from the United Kingdom; and how many are local.

Mr. Hopkinson

Some 1,460 people are at present employed, of whom about 1,400 are Jamaicans. Most of the others are from Canada and the United States.

Mr. Crouch

In view of the satisfactory replies which my right hon. Friend has given to my Questions, may I ask him whether he thinks that these circumstances will bring increased prosperity to Jamaica, and will mean a greater employment of the islanders and an increasing standard of living there?

Mr. Hopkinson

We must certainly hope to see further development in the production of bauxite in Jamaica, which is certainly helping both revenue and employment.

Mr. Harold Davies

In what currency do we have to pay if we buy Jamaican bauxite?

Mr. Hopkinson

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will be kind enough to put that Question down.