§ Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the price of turtle meat in Mahé, Seychelles, before Aldabra Islands were leased by the Seychelles Government, and the current price; the duration of that lease to commercial interests; and, in order to ensure a cheaper price for turtle meat sold to the poorer classes in Seychelles, if he will consider resuming control of the Aldabra Islands, and take other steps to lower prices for this food.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydThe price of turtle meat has remained constant at 1s. 6d. per lb. for almost two years. The islands were leased in February, 1955, for a period of 30 years, with an option of renewal for a further 20 years. Since the price has not been affected by the lease, there is no reason on that account to resume control of the islands. I understand that little profit is made on the sale of turtle meat, which is sold by public auction, and the Seychelles Government does not consider it necessary to take any special steps to reduce its price.