§ 19. Colonel DAYasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the length of residential service by civil servants in West Africa, without leave, under existing agreements, together with the length of service, without leave, operating under agreements made prior to 1914?
§ Mr. AMERYUnder the old West African leave regulations the normal length of a tour of resident service entitling to leave was 12 months, which could lie extended in certain circumstances. Under the new leave regulations the average length of a tour of service is about 18 months. The actual length depends upon the circumstances of each case.
§ Colonel DAYIs it not the fact that it is almost impossible for Europeans to live out in West Africa for so long a period without leave, and will the right hon. Gentleman consider extending it?
§ Mr. AMERYWhen the new leave regulations were introduced the point was very carefully considered, in view of the general improvement in health conditions on the West Coast, but the subject is being carefully watched, and if there should be any evidence that the period were too long we should always consider the matter.