§ 88. Mr. Harold Daviesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps have been taken to restart local industries in Malaya, with particular reference to fishing, pineapple canning and the paper industry.
§ Mr. Georģe Hall:The rehabilitation of the Malayan fishing industry has been given particular attention in view of the food shortage, and special efforts are being made to obtain fishing gear and equipment, including ice-making plant, for use by the industry.
Active steps are being taken by the Department of Trade and Industry in Malaya to restart and rehabilitate the important pineapple industry. One hundred and fifty tons of tin plate have already been despatched for canning, and it is hoped that exports of canned pineapples will be recommenced on a small scale soon.
I have no information regarding the paper industry, but I will make inquiries. My hon. Friend may rest assured that I am very anxious to restore and encourage the development without delay of all economic secondary industries.