GOVERNMENT POLICY ON TOURIST INDUSTRY

Mr John Ede asked the Minister for Commerce and Industry whether he will make a statement on the policy the Government proposes to adopt in respect of the tourist industry.

Mr J. M. Jumabhoy: Sir, as the hon. Member himself is aware, I am now in consultation with those interests connected with tourism before Government policy on the tourist industry is finalised. I hope therefore to be able to make an announcement on Government policy in the near future.

Mr John Ede: Mr Speaker, Sir, is the Minister aware that I urged the question of tourist promotion in November 1955 and again in 1956, and that it had the unanimous support of all sections of this House during the Budget debate and will he state the reasons for the delay in deciding on the policy?

Mr J. M. Jumabhoy: Sir, the hon. Member is aware that an expert had come out from New Zealand to put up recommendations on increasing the tourist trade here. I believe that it was towards the end of last year that his Report was submitted and it does take a bit of time to decide on whether the recommendations should be strictly followed or varied or what other steps should be taken. I am also anxious that Government policy should not be finalised before I have had time to consult with those connected with tourism because they might have suggestions which might be useful.

Mr John Ede: Sir, is the Minister aware that this Government may take a long time to make up its mind and that other Governments might be quicker?