§ The Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations (Mr. Douglas Dodds-Parker)With the permission of the House, I should like to make a statement. Hon. Members will be aware of the loss of life and devastation in the Province of Ontario caused by the recent hurricane. As a token of their deep sympathy with the victims of this disaster Her Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom have informed the Government of Canada of their desire to make a contribution of £25,000 to the Ontario Hurricane Relief Fund. The Canadian Government have expressed their great appreciation of this gift.
§ Mr. AttleeOn behalf of my hon. and right hon. Friends I should like to join in that expression of sympathy, and to say how glad we are that the Government have made this contribution.
§ Mr. Dodds-ParkerI am very grateful to the right hon. Gentleman for his words.
§ Mr. C. DaviesI am sure that every hon. and right hon. Member will join in the expression of deep sympathy with all who have suffered in this disaster. I am sure also that everyone will agree with this token—and it is only a token—of sympathy with Canada which has always been the first to come with sympathy and real aid to our assistance in times of trouble.
§ Mr. Gordon WalkerWhilst, of course, agreeing with the Government's action, may I ask whether it would not have been wiser to take that action a little more promptly, in order to avoid the sharp and pointed comments which have been made in some parts of the Canadian Press because of the delay in announcing a decision?
§ Mr. Dodds-ParkerIt is always better to make certain first in what form help is desired, whether in cash or in other aid.