§ Mr. J. Lewisasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what assistance has been promised to the Malayan Rubber Estate Owners Company, Limited, and its principals; and what commissions are payable to members of the new company on purchases and on sales, respectively.
§ Mr. George HallThe company has been formed this year for the express object of ensuring a fair distribution among all companies and owners of over 100 acres, of the equipment and services which will be in short supply, subject to the over-riding need for the maximum production of rubber to meet world demands. It is intended that the company will remain in being only so long as these shortages obtain. The company has been promised support in securing priority for supplies of equipment, shipping and 637W other facilities which could properly be given by the Government but does not require any financial assistance from the Government. As regards the second part of the Question, the directors are not entitled to any remuneration from the company except in respect of special services. The company is empowered, in order to cover its expenses, to charge a commission on goods supplied or in respect of services performed. It is not intended that its operations shall be conducted for the purpose of making profits.