7. Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Under secretary of State for Dominion Affairs 1390 what schemes under the Colonial Development and Welfare Act are under consideration for 1941 for the South African High Commission territories?
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs (Mr. Shakespeare)It has not been possible, owing to war-time difficulties, to utilise the Colonial Development and Welfare Act, 1940, as much as we should have wished. Nevertheless, certain schemes relating to food production and experimental anti-malaria work in Swaziland are being examined and we are awaiting definite proposals. In the case of the Bechuanaland Protectorate a scheme for the continuance of certain work in connection with water supplies has recently been approved.
Mr. Creech JonesIn view of the real deficiencies and neglect in past years, will special attention be given to these South African Protectorates, so that a constructive and more comprehensive policy can be pursued, particularly in view of the proximity of the Union?
Mr. David AdamsWhat is the amount of the estimated expenditure under the heads which the hon. Gentleman has mentioned?
§ Mr. ShakespeareI must have notice of that question. The hon. Gentleman the Member for Shipley (Mr. Creech Jones) will appreciate that the financial position of the territories has improved. In the case of Basutoland, a good deal of work is being done out of the improved revenues of that territory.