asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations and the Colonies if he is aware that household equipment is being removed from homes searched by troops during the present emergency in British Guiana; and what steps he will take to relieve the hardship thus caused.

I assume that the Question refers to iron piping used for blowing domestic fires. Iron piping has been used to make firearms and pipe grenades and any of this piping found during searches is therefore confiscated. This should not cause hardship as bamboo and other hollow stems are readily available and can be used instead.

Is the Minister aware that we are glad that investigations have been made into this matter and to receive his assurance that alternative methods have been produced by the authorities to alleviate this suffering?