asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if a war damage claims commission has yet been appointed for the British Solomon Islands; from what source financial aid will be provided; how many claims have been submitted; and when it is expected that claims will be paid?

Mr. Creech Jones:

A war damage claims commission has not yet been appointed for these islands, but it is hoped to commence the investigation of claims, of which 222 have been submitted, in a few months' time. I regret that it is not possible at this juncture to provide specific answers to the second and fourth parts of the Question, since consideration of these matters must await the reports of the various commissions which have been and are being set up in all territories concerned.

Is the Minister aware that the Australian Government, who are responsible for some neighbouring islands, have already completed this work? Is it not outrageous that the people should have to wait more than 18 months after the end of the Japanese war before anything is done by the Colonial Office?

Mr. Creech Jones:

This investigation is contingent on others, and until they are completed, it is not possible to make progress here.

What are the other investigations which prevent this work being started?

Mr. Creech Jones:

Arrangements had to be made in regard to certain other Far Eastern territories, and until these arrangements were completed, it was impossible to proceed with this.