§ 31. Mr. Pavittasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what was the total amount of mortgages given in the last six months by the finance company in Fiji sponsored by the Commonwealth Development Corporation; what was the percentage of this sum provided by the Fiji Government; and if he will make a statement
§ Mr. WoodI understand that the Home Finance Company in Fiji made six offers of mortgages for a total sum of £17,518 from December, 1971 to May, 1972 inclusive. The Fijian Government has a 50 per cent. share in the equity financing of this company, but most of the mortgage funds have been raised by local loans and by loans from the Fiji Development Company, which is wholly owned by the Commonwealth Development Corporation.
§ Mr. PavittWill the right hon. Gentleman in his discussions with the CDC pursue this matter, in view of the fact that there is in Fiji a good deal of uncertainty about the future of the sugar arrangements in the coming years? Will he try to get the CDC to agree to create more co-operative housing associations on the lines which have already been laid down, since these associations have been so successful?
§ Mr. WoodI shall be discussing this important matter with the CDC. I am glad that the hon. Gentleman has drawn attention to it. As for any progress in housing schemes, this is obviously a matter for discussion and agreement between the Fijian Government and the CDC.