§ 18. Mr. H. Hyndasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies, what are his plans for the development of the co-operative movement in the Colonies; and whether he will consider the setting up of a co-operative department in his Department and in each of the Colonies, manned by trained staff.
§ Mr. George HallCo-operative departments and registrars of co-operative societies already exist in several Colonies and I will consider whether these Colonies in which special officers or departments do not exist should be invited to consider their appointment. It is proposed to pay special attention to the important subject of recruitment and training of staff for co-operative work. At the present moment, however, the extreme staff shortage in the Colonies is an obstacle. Up to the present it has not been felt that the establishment of a separate co-operative department in the Colonial Office would materially assist the growth of co-operation in the Colonies. I propose to circulate to Colonial Governments a model draft cooperative ordinance.
§ Squadron-Leader DonnerCan the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that co-operative societies of producers will be encouraged?