HC Deb 21 April 1948 vol 449 cc1796-7
21. Mr. Hugh Fraser

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what contributions in men or money His Majesty's Government are contributing to international scientific inquiries into tropical, cocoa, and rubber diseases which are being undertaken.

Mr. Mayhew

As there are, so far as I am aware, no international organisations dealing with research on cocoa or rubber diseases the question of His Majesty's Governments contribution does not arise.

Mr. Fraser

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that our only contribution to the Amazon project consists of two scientists?

Mr. Mayhew

I will look into that point, but I did make inquiries, and I have failed to establish the existence of any international organisation dealing with these two subjects.

Mr. Molson

Does not the Under-Secretary's ignorance in this matter indicate the disadvantage in having the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs answering for the Secretary of State for the Colonies?