Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has received any recent reports on the economic and social condition of St. Helena; and what special steps are being taken to improve the present condition of the island?
Mr. M. MacDonaldThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second, proposals by the new Governor for improving rural housing conditions are now under my consideration. I also expect to receive from him, as soon as he has had time to complete his examination of the local position, comprehensive proposals for improving the present unsatisfactory conditions in the island. It may be added that, in1826W view of the difficulties with which the local flax industry is faced owing to the depressed condition of the world market for fibres, every effort is being made by the local Government, who are assisted by a trained Agricultural and Forestry Officer, to find other crops of economic value for cultivation.