§ 63. Mr. R. Robinsonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps have now been taken for the rehabilitation of Jamaica following the recent hurricane.
66. Mr. Smithersasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will make a statement with regard to the progress of relief and reconstruction measures in connection with the hurricane in Jamaica.
§ Mr. Lyttelton:Immediate relief was vigorously organised by the Governor; towards this His Majesty's Government contributed £250,000, for which a supplementary Vote will shortly be presented. Building materials to the value of £250,000 have already been distributed free. £45,000 worth of seed is being given to farmers. Within 10 days of the hurricane the Jamaica Government promised the banana industry £½million towards the cost of clearing and replanting and the work has gone ahead rapidly.
Subject to Parliamentary approval, His Majesty's Government will contribute up to a further £3,100,000 by grant and £1,500,000 by interest-free loan towards the cost of reconstruction. Detailed 45W schemes for using this money in restoring agriculture and in rehousing have recently been received from the Governor and are being considered urgently.