Trouble in Jamaica Recent reports from Jamaica indicate that labour
unrest is so intense that a repetition of the troubles of last year is seriously feared. The heavy unemployment in Kingston is being swelled by immigrants from the plantations; and un- fortunately no immediate improvement of the labour situa- tion seems likely. The Royal Commission, whose sessions provided an opportunity for expressing grievances, has now left the island; and it is obvious that, whatever the nature of its Report, no immediate results can be expected. The relief schemes approved last year are being held up for lack of funds; and there is no prospect of an increase in Jamaica's export quota for sugar. Lastly, the absence of well-estab- lished trade union organisations, for which the Colonial Office and the Jamaica Government must be held responsible, means that it is difficult to find acceptable methods of mediation. Such a combination of circumstances has created a highly inflammable situation. After the warning of last year there could be no excuse if another outbreak occurred. Since immediate assistance is what is wanted, it is essential that the proposed relief schemes should be carried out with the greatest possible speed.
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