Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, since the report of the Commission to Trinidad, steps have been taken to implement the recommendations; and what progress has been made?
Mr. M. MacDonaldConsiderable progress has been made towards implementing the recommendations of the Trinidad Commission.
Under the heading "Medical and Health Services," a draft Ordinance has been prepared to transfer the executive functions of the Central Board of Health to the Director of Medical Services.
As regards housing, I understand that the Governor contemplates the establishment of a town-planning and housing authority, which would carry out a far-reaching plan of slum clearance. Legislation is being drafted for this purpose.
2926WA committee is also preparing proposals for the establishment of land stttlement schemes.
As regards labour administration, the hon. Member will already be aware that my predecessor selected an industrial adviser to undertake conciliation work and to lay the foundations of the new Labour Department. This officer has been in the Colony for some time and his work is progressing satisfactorily. The appointment of a permanent Secretary for Labour to succeed the Industrial Adviser is still under consideration. An Arbitration Ordinance which provides conciliation machinery in industrial disputes has recently been enacted, and agreement has been reached between the employers and employed in the oil industry to refer certain matters at present in dispute to arbitration under this Ordinance. Amendment of the Workmen's Compensation Ordinance is still under consideration.