§ 9. Mr. C. Hughesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how frequently vessels of the Union Castle and Clan lines call at St. Helena; and what subsidy per ship is paid to the companies concerned.
§ Mr. J. AmeryOnce a month in each direction. With effect from 1st January, 1960, a subsidy of £2,500 is paid per call at both St. Helena and Ascension Islands by a passenger ship and £1,000 per call by a cargo ship.
§ Mr. HughesIs the Under-Secretary aware that one passenger vessel provides an income of £500 for the island where the population is extremely poor, and that therefore this is a major source of income? Would he consider having discussions with the shipping companies concerned to see whether more frequent calls can be made at St. Helena?
§ Mr. AmeryWe have been looking at this matter. I can tell the hon. Member that it has not been easy even to make arrangements on the lines on which I have just spoken.