§ 19. Colonel WEDGWOODasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs what steps he is taking to improve the administration of the Protectorates as to education, agricultural progress, and personnel of the administration?
Mr. J. H. THOMASAs my right hon. and gallant Friend is aware, Commissions have recently reported on the financial and economic position of Swaziland and the Bechuanaland Protectorate, and their recommendations, so far as they have not already been carried out, are receiving the most careful consideration. It will be appreciated that all these territories are passing through a period of severe economic depression, which in the case of the two already mentioned has necessitated recourse to grants-in-aid from the 730 United Kingdom Exchequer, and that there are consequently difficulties in the way of taking any steps which would have the effect of increasing their current administrative expenditure. I can however assure my right hon. and gallant Friend that the problems to which he refers are not being lost sight of and have, in fact, lately formed the subject of discussions with Sir Herbert Stanley, the High Commissioner, during his visit to this country.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODHas the right hon. Gentleman considered the possibility of recruiting for positions in these Protectorates on the same lines as the Colonial Office recruits its staff?