§ 56. Mr. Skinnardasked the Secretary of States for the Colonies what negotiations have recently taken place between officials of the Jamaican Government and a representative of certain American interests, with a view to the erection of a luxury hotel in Kingston; whether he is aware that certain British firms are interested in the possibilities of developing the tourist industry in the island; and whether he will give an assurance that no grant will be made from the funds of the Colonial Development Corporation to finance construction of an 336W hotel to be operated by an American company.
§ Mr. Rees-WilliamsThe Government of Jamaica has not taken part in any such negotiations with American interests but it is understood that an hotel project is under consideration by a number of Jamaican business men. I feel sure that the Government of Jamaica would welcome any interest in the development of its tourist industry taken by British firms. With regard to the last part of the Question it is not contemplated that the Colonial Development Corporation will make free grants to this or any other private commercial enterprise but if the promoters of the project should approach the Corporation with a view to financial participation on business lines the Board would no doubt consider the matter on its merits.