HC Deb 05 December 1945 vol 416 c2300
6. Lieut.-Colonel Mackeson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he intends to increase the amount of money at present available for colonial development; and by what amount.

Mr. George Hall

The Colonial Development and Welfare (Amendment) Act enacted last April already provides for a very substantial increase in the amount of money available for colonial development as from next April. I shall, of course, keep the position under constant review, but it would be premature at this date to consider any further amendment of the Act.

Lieut.-Colonel Mackeson

Would the Minister bear in mind the views expressed by his colleague the Minister of Fuel and Power, who expressed dissatisfaction with the policy of the Government, and would he make some endeavour to redeem Labour Party promises with regard to Colonial development?

Mr. Hall

While not entirely satisfied, I think the hon. and gallant Gentleman will agree that £120,000,000 to be spent over a period of 10 years is not by any means a small sum.