HC Deb 20 January 1943 vol 386 c204
44. Mr. Edmund Harvey

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of the urgent need for an increase in the medical services in the African Colonies, he will consider creating scholarships to enable students from these Colonies to acquire professional training in medicine in this country; and whether the Colonial Welfare and Development Fund is available for this purpose?

Colonel Stanley

Yes, Sir. I agree that some action of this kind will be necessary in order to strengthen the medical services in the African Colonies, and my hon. Friend may be assured that his suggestion will receive every consideration. I should certainly be prepared to consider making a scheme under the Colonial Development and Welfare Act to finance any practicable measures which may be devised.

Mr. Harvey

Is my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that the United Africa Company has already provided two scholarships of £300 a year for four years in Nigeria and the Gold Coast, and could not that example be followed by the Government?

Colonel Stanley

Yes, that is so, but I think the matter requires great consideration.

Mr. Sorensen

Could the right hon. and gallant Gentleman not see also that any Africans trained in medicine in this country have the same status when practising in their own country, as any appointments have to be British?

Colonel Stanley

That is another question.