Mr. Vaneasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware of the inadequate water supplies in Jamaica which in times of drought all but fail; and what steps he is taking to effect an immediate improvement.
Mr. Creech JonesThe Government of Jamaica are fully aware of the need for improving water supplies. Their development plan provides almost£2 million for water supplies, irrigation and river training works. Since 1942, expenditure from Colonial development and welfare funds of above£833,000 has been approved. Almost£250,000 from Colonial development and welfare and colonial funds has been approved for expenditure on tanks for dry areas, and further programmes are expected.