§ 6. Mr. LI. Williamsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a statement about the present situation in British Honduras after the recent hurricane.
§ Mr. H. FraserThere is very little to add to the full reply which I gave on 30th November to my hon. Friend the Member for Surbiton (Mr. Fisher).
1506 The civil departments have largely resumed the responsibilities which for a time were exercised by the Service authorities. The new Governor, Sir Peter Stallard, takes over tomorrow in succession to Sir Colin Thornley who was due to leave a month ago but remained to direct the relief operations.
§ Mr. Ll. WilliamsIs the Under-Secretary aware that his recent visit to British Honduras was highly commendable and valuable? Is he further aware that the action of Sir Colin Thornley, the Governor, in throwing himself so completely into the fight against the terribly difficult conditions resulting from the recent disaster is characteristic of the fine colonial servant he is and is in line with our highest colonial traditions?
§ Mr. FraserI thank the hon. Gentleman very much for that expression of view, with which I heartily accord. I am glad to say that the Navy very kindly sent a ship back and Sir Colin departed with full gubernatorial honours on 4th December and Sir Peter Stallard will be taking over tomorrow.
§ Mr. LI. WilliamsIs the Under-Secretary aware that what I said about Sir Colin Thornley should be seen in the light of the fact that he has been recently very ill indeed?
§ Mr. FraserI agree entirely.