HC Deb 20 July 1964 vol 699 cc37-8W
Mr. J. Griffiths

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations and the Colonies what plans are being prepared for the economic development of the Gilbert and Ellice Islands Colony; and whether these will be adequate to provide work and livelihood for the increasing population of the Colony.

Mr. Sandys

The Development Plan for the three years ending on the 31st March, 1966, provides for the expenditure of nearly £480,000. Of this amount about £185,000 is for economic projects such as the improvement of the coconut industry; and pigs and poultry scheme and the development of fisheries.

There are inevitably limits to the economic potential of these small and scattered islets, and the voluntary resettlement of as many of the population as can be absorbed elsewhere where there are better opportunities is being actively pursued.

Forward to