15. Mr. Brian Harrisonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what progress is being made in land reform in the New Hebrides; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. StonehouseWe have been examining with the French authorities a number of matters concerning land in the New Hebrides, including the possibility of setting up a joint working party to go into questions concerning title and the establishment of a land code. I hope that it will soon be possible to reach agreement on the appropriate action.
Mr. HarrisonWill the hon. Gentleman institute conversations with the missions to try to persuade them to disgorge the enormous holdings of land which they have in the New Hebrides.
§ Mr. StonehouseI will certainly examine that suggestion.