HC Deb 18 December 1935 vol 307 cc1776-7W
Mr. WOODS

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he is aware of the worsening conditions of the people of Newfoundland, their growing discontent, and their dissatisfaction with the commission Government; and is he prepared at an early date to restore full and free democratic a government to Newfoundland?

Mr. HACKING

My right hon. Friend is aware that the poor results of the recent fishing season, with a resulting setback in the Island's economic recovery, have caused disappointment locally in Newfoundland, but I do not agree that this implies dissatisfaction with the existing form of Government. As regards the last part of the question, I would remind the hon. Member that the Address to His Majesty the King from the Newfoundland Legislature, following upon which the Newfoundland Act, 1933, was passed, prayed that responsible government might be suspended until such time as the Island might become self-supporting again.