HC Deb 07 November 1929 vol 231 cc1288-9W
Mr. D. SOMERVILLE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies how much aerial survey work in connection with the stimulation of cotton growing in the colonies has been carried out since 1st July; whether, in view of four months having now elapsed since that date, the work is actually completed; and, if so, with what result?

Mr. LUNN

The Governors of the East and West African Colonies and Protectorates were informed by telegram in June that where substantial acceleration of survey required for a scheme of development would be effected by an aerial survey, assistance from Imperial funds might be granted in suitable cases. The replies to that telegram are now being considered with a view to making use of air survey methods in such cases as may appear suitable. The matter is one in which plans require to be very carefully considered and elaborated if success is to be looked for, and it is much too early to ask for results from this particular form of assistance.