HC Deb 08 November 1948 vol 457 cc159-60W
Mr. Palmer

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware of the serious food situation in Long Cay, Crooked Island and Aclin Island of the Bahamas group; and whether steps are being taken by His Majesty's Government to remedy this state of affairs.

Mr. Creech Jones

The Governor of the Bahamas reports that during the summer Long Cay, Crooked Island and Acklins Island were badly affected by drought. Although grain crops had failed, shops were adequately supplied with foodstuffs and the normal allocations of rice and sugar, under Government control, arrived during the whole period by fortnightly mail services. In view of the ample marine resources readily available, it was not considered necessary to organise free food distribution. The Governor is satisfied that conditions will soon return to normal as winter crops will be available this month.