§ 21. Mr. C. Royleasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what recent discussions there have been on the question of sea island cotton; and if he will make a statement on the present condition of that industry.
§ Mr. J. AmeryI understand that there were discussions in the West Indies in December. I am asking the Governor-General for information about the outcome, and for an assessment of the present condition of the industry. I will circulate the information in the OFFICIAL REPORT when I have his reply.
§ Mr. RoyleI am obliged to the hon. Gentleman. Does not he agree that this is an industry which is being rather neglected as compared with, say, the sugar and citrus industries? Is he prepared to initiate those discussions?
§ Mr. AmeryI should like to get the full report from the Governor-General. I agree that the position of the industry has become serious with the drop in the price of long staple cotton.