HC Deb 20 March 1946 vol 420 cc1848-9
16. Mr. Turton

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether a decision has yet been reached on the Report of the Commission on Higher Education in West Africa.

Mr. Creech Jones

No, Sir. During the recent West African Council, my right hon. Friend discussed with the Governors the very complicated issues raised by the reports. The recommendations of the reports are now receiving active attention in the light of the Governors' reports and the information gained at the West African Council.

Mr. Turton

Has not a long time been taken by the hon. Gentleman to make up his mind? I thought he gave some indication to West Africa that he had his mind partly made up on this matter. Has his mind deteriorated?

Mr. Creech Jones

No, Sir. I think my hon. Friend will appreciate that it was a matter on which the fullest opportunity' should be given for the West Africans to express themselves and for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies to learn at the recent West African Council the views of the Governors and the local people.

Mr. Pickthorn

Are there any educated West Africans who would put into English the phrase "complicated issues "?