– in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 24 February 1954.
Mr Reginald Sorensen
, Leyton
12:00,
24 February 1954
asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies for what reason the Seychelles Government intend to dispose of Government plantations in certain outlying islands, in view of the research work now being pursued in those islands by the Agricultural Department.
Mr Oliver Lyttelton
, Aldershot
The Agricultural Department is not at present undertaking any organised research work in these islands. Since 1948, when the last lease expired, they have been run at a loss by Government. It has, therefore, been decided to offer the leases for tender.
Mr Reginald Sorensen
, Leyton
Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that not only disappointment but also some hardship will be caused to inhabitants of the locality?
Mr Oliver Lyttelton
, Aldershot
I do not think so. I will certainly watch the matter, but I do not think that the hon. Member's fears, are likely to be justified.
Secretary of State was originally the title given to the two officials who conducted the Royal Correspondence under Elizabeth I. Now it is the title held by some of the more important Government Ministers, for example the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs.
