HC Deb 25 June 1947 vol 439 cc415-6
21. Brigadier Mackeson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps His Majesty's Government has taken to ensure that the Dominions are allowed to play a full part in the formation and execution of plans for expanding the output of industry and agriculture in the Colonies.

Mr. Creech Jones

The United Kingdom Government are aware of the part which the Dominion Governments can play in the field of Colonial development. Already in a number of important respects, close co-operation has been established. So far as expansion of production in industry and agriculture is concerned, the Dominions are, of course, much occupied at the moment with their own economies and the expansion of their own productive capacity. The assistance of the Dominion Governments will, I am sure, be readily forthcoming as necessary in the larger Colonial development plans, and there will undoubtedly be opportunity for Dominion investment in this field.

Major Legge-Bourke

Have the Dominions been invited to join the Economic Advisory Council, and what has the Council done so far?

Mr. Creech Jones

I hope that I may be in a position to circulate a statement to the House in regard to the work of the Economic and Development Council, but in all our development work there has been very close contact with the Dominion Governments, and we have received in some of our schemes very practical assistance indeed.

Brigadier Mackeson

Would the right hon. Gentleman try to let us have that before the Supply Day, if that is possible?

Mr. Creech Jones

I am hurrying it on, but it is a matter for the printers now.

Mr. Wilson Harris

Has any Dominion Government made any contribution to the Colonial Development Fund?

Mr. Creech Jones

I am not aware of it.