HC Deb 05 November 1947 vol 443 cc1822-3
36. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies in view of the acceptance by this country of £20,000 contributed without hindrance by West African Governments to the relief of flood victims in Britain, why the collection of funds from native administrations in West Africa for the assistance of West Africans in this country is severely restricted by those Governments.

Mr. Rees-Williams

I am not aware of any restrictions on contributions from native administration funds towards the assistance of West Africans in this country.

Mr. Sorensen

Do I understand that the hon. Gentleman is unaware of certain information in possession of his Department, and, if so, will he consider information which I give him; further, does he know if the £20,000 was subscribed to the flood victims of this country with the concurrence of the native authorities?

Mr. Rees-Williams

The subscription to the flood victims was agreed to by the legislative council. The point my hon. Friend is now making is with regard to the native administration. I am fully aware of all the information in the Department on this matter and I can assure him that there has been no prohibition of the native administration from making contributions to this purpose.

Mr. Sorensen

Can I take it that any moneys collected by the native authorities can be forwarded without hindrance to the responsible authorities in this country who are looking after the interests of West African students?

Mr. Rees-Williams

Certainly.