§ 82. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware that there is great unemployment in Jamaica; that this unemployment has caused large emigration from that island; and what are his present plans for dealing with this problem.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI regret that there is considerable unemployment and underemployment in Jamaica, and I am aware that this is one of the causes of emigration. The Jamaica Government are continuing their efforts to expand production and employment, and the Jamaican Ministers intend to give priority to economic development, particularly in agriculture. A new five-year development programme has recently been prepared by the Jamaica Government and, as hon. Members will be aware, legislation is at present before Parliament to make further CD. and W. provision from which Her Majesty's Government will be able to help the Jamaica Government financially with this programme.