asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies the nature of the assistance applied for recently by the residents of the Seychelles Islands; whether the report of the commissioner who was sent to that colony to investigate has now been received; and when it will be available?

The Seychelles Planters' Association recently submitted to the Governor certain proposals for relieving their financial difficulties. As to the report of the commissioner who was sent to the colony, I assume that my hon. Friend has in mind the recent visit of Mr. F. A. Stockdale, Agricultural Advisor to the Secretary of State which preceded the communication from the Planters' Association. His report, which related almost entirely to agricultural conditions, has been received, and pending its consideration no decision as to publication has been reached.

Has any reply been given to the request of the residents for financial assistance?

It has not been found possible to agree with some of the proposals, and others are still under consideration.

Will the hon. Gentleman publish the report?

Such a report is not normally published, but, if hon. Members desire it, a copy will be placed in the Library.