HC Deb 18 February 1958 vol 582 c1012
7. Mr. Royle

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps have been taken by the Governments of the West Indies to replace the West Indies Navigation Company's ship "West Indian"; and what steps are being taken by Her Majesty's Government with the West Indian Governments to develop communications between the Colonies.

Mr. Profumo

Arrangements have been made for two ships to be chartered, and I expect them to be in service next month. Her Majesty's Government have the needs of the West Indies for improved communications constantly in mind. Recently they have given technical advice on the charter of the two ships, and the improvement of air services in the area has been encouraged.

Mr. Royle

Will the hon. Gentleman say who is providing the two ships which he mentions and whether anything is being done by Her Majesty's Government, possibly through the Colonial Development Corporation? Two ships, of course, are quite inadequate to meet the need.

Mr. Profumo

This is an Interim arrangement. One is a Danish vessel and one is a German vessel. Colonial Development and Welfare had been used in the previous arrangement. As this is only an interim one, the hon. Member can rest assured that Her Majesty's Government will continue to take an interest in the long-term arrangements for communications between the West Indies.