HC Deb 22 March 1971 vol 814 cc17-8W
87. Mr. Bryant Godman Irvine

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether the increased copra production in the Gilbert and Ellice Islands Colony in 1970 was in accordance with his expectations; and what are his plans for increasing production in 1971.

Mr. Godber

No, it was badly affected by the drought of 1968. The current copra development programme is inevitably long-term, and its effect will not be apparent for four to five years at least. No substantial increase in production is expected in 1971, but further incentive arrangements are being considered.