asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether a conference of all parties interested in the clove industry in Zanzibar has yet been called by the British resident to consider the position of the industry in relation to the recent legislation?

No, Sir. But the hon. Member will remember that all interested parties in Zanzibar had the opportunity of expressing their views when the decrees in question were before the legislative council, and they should have no difficulty in laying their opinions before the Resident at any time.

Has it not been brought to the notice of the right hon. Gentleman that there is a great desire that such a conference should be held now, seeing the rapidity with which the legislation was given effect to some months ago?

No, Sir. I am not in possession of that information. I think there was a great deal of consultation before the legislation was introduced. Zanzibar is a small place and there is always opportunity for discussion with the Resident.

Was it not a matter of complaint that fair opportunity was not given for discussion before the legislation was introduced?

There are always some people who grumble that there is inadequate opportunities of discussing any legislation.