The Future of the Colonial Empire
The West Indian case on its merits required quick action. But even if it had not it would be proper to deal with it at once in view of the Government's decision to face the whole problem of the Colonial Empire. Since colonies have been in dispute between Germany and this country it is a matter of urgency that the principles under- lying our administration should be firmly declared, and that the measures which are needed as the sequel of measures already taken should not be postponed. It is laid down in the Government's statement that the primary aim of colonial policy is to protect and advance the interests of the inhabitants, and that for this end there must be further active development of natural resources. The majority of the dependencies derive their living wholly or mainly from agriculture, and cannot themselves finance research or schemes of capital enterprise. It is proposed, therefore, to give more regular assistance than that hitherto provided by the Colonial Development Fund and occasional special grants, and to offer financial help up to £5,000,000 a year on approved schemes, and a further £500,000 a year for research. Governments in the dependencies are to be asked at once to begin the preparation of development pro- grammes for a period of years ahead. But the provision of money and guidance from London is not to mean inter- ference or dictation. The statement indicates genuine observe ce and application of the principle of trusteeship.
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