§ Major BIRCHALLasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the illicit sale of spirits to the natives of the New Hebrides is increasing; and whether he will take steps to see that the law is more strictly enforced against this traffic?
§ Mr. AMERYI have no reason to believe that the illicit sale of spirits to the natives of the New Hebrides is on the increase. The British Resident Commissioner has recently reported that he is convinced that the situation to-day is an improvement on the past. The problem is, however, under discussion with his French colleague. With regard to the second part of the question, a number of prosecutions have taken place, and I am confident that action will be taken in all cases where sufficient evidence can be obtained. It should, however, be realised that the isolated nature of the places in which many of these offences are alleged to take place renders it frequently difficult or impossible to obtain this evidence.