§ Mr. G. Hutchinsonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is able to make any statement with regard to the damage caused recently by cyclones in Mauritius; whether it is intended to provide financial assistance to the Colony; and what steps he proposes to take in order to secure supplies of the necessary foodstuffs and building materials needed to make good the damage.
§ Colonel StanleyI would refer the hon. Member to the replies which I gave to the hon. Member for South Dorset (Viscount Hinchingbrooke) and the hon. Member for 2037W West Leyton (Mr. Sorensen) on 7th February. As regards financial assistance a grant of £10,000 was immediately made by His Majesty's Government, and this sum has been placed in the Relief Fund opened by the Governor which is managed by a representative of the Central Relief Committee, with an elected member of the Council of Government as chairman, with a fully representative membership. Distribution of relief in kind, wherever possible, is effected through local subcommittee. Special steps have been taken to arrange for the importation of the necessary food supplies and building materials.