§ 36. Mr. Bellengerasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of the fact that full use is not made of the facilities offered by the Colonial Development Fund for assistance in the various Dependencies, he will bring to the notice of the appropriate Governments the opportunities available for help for which the fund provides?
Mr. M. MacDonaldThe Governments of the Colonial Dependencies are well aware of the opportunities of help afforded by the Colonial Development Fund, and I do not think that a further general notification on the subject would serve any useful purpose. The attention of in- 1274 dividual Governments is, however, called from time to time, as occasion offers, to the desirability of asking for assistance for particular projects.
§ Mr. BellengerAs I assume the purpose of this fund is one which meets with the right hon. Gentleman's approval, may I ask whether he will take any further steps to see that that purpose is fully implemented?
Mr. MacDonaldThe hon. Member's assumption is correct, and my answer said I did not think it necessary to take any general action in order to notify Colonial Governments of this matter. We do take action very often in particular cases.
§ Mr. BellengerThen, may I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman will take any particular action?
Mr. MacDonaldIf occasion arises we always do take particular action and we shall continue to do so.
§ Lieut.-Commander FletcherAre the facilities offered by the fund available to the South African Protectorates?