236 
communication between Jamaica and London, where at the present 
time no large fruit trade has been establishe d with the West 
only communication were satisfactory. We also propose, for the 
sake of the i — generally and the peasant population, that 
intercolonial communication should be established —fortnightly 
communication-— between the different islands. The sum we ask 
under this head is £5,000 for the present year—all we expect to 
spend during the Suaticial year; but, as far as we can at present 
say, the ae war estimate of future expenditure is — 000 - ear. 
As regards both _ and iuo grants which we ask from the 
Imperial exchequer, I have to point out that it is abeoloieis 
impossible for the ficlonits je bear the cost under the present 
settima e hope. they may be in the future self- 
whole matter into our own hands is that we shall have it under 
our control, and we shall not be hampered by local jealousies, and 
shall be able to intr roduce something like a general scheme, which 
would be impossible if local Tagini in each case to be 
consulted, and local jealousies were brought into play. 1 regard 
the whole of this cost as being an expenditure intended to relieve 
the British Dor nt of e charges. The object is to sce 
the W ian Colonies in every possible way to pro 
alternative oun to sugar. TE it succeeds the Colonies will 
again become self-supporting, and if it fails I am bound to say 
that we, at all events, are unable to suggest any runs imer 
Sir EDWARD GREY said: Part of the vote is a grant aid 
of the agricultural department, and I am exoeskinety glad id quee 
that Dr. Morris is to be in charge of this department. He will 
bring to the discharge of his duties a knowledge of tropical 
produce, the possibilities and conditions of the cultivation of that 
assistance in reference to the prospects of the islands were o 
the greatest value to the Commission, and I am sure his work at 
the head of the department will be of the highest value to the 
islands, and, should the appointment become permanent, will be of 
increasing value year by year. Somuch in regard to the personnel 
of the departm ent. The object = e alternatives of culti- 
vation is referred to in the report of the Commission ough 
h 
that relief may become less necessary every year, and as 
possible cease altogether. That is the object of this part of the 
vote, that in the islands ine the Vani industry has almost 
disappeared, or i^ likely to alternative industry may be 
created. In some of the islands deni is a  posetptüiby of doing that 
at present, unb in Jamaica, to which the hon. member for 
Northampton referred, alternative cultivation has saved the 
