HC Deb 21 April 1948 vol 449 cc1795-6
35. Dr. Segal

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many Africans are serving as Directors or Assistant Directors of Medical Services in the West African Colonies.

Mr. Mayhew

No Africans have yet reached those grades, but a number are serving in senior specialist posts and administrative posts below the rank of Director or Assistant Director.

Dr. Segal

Would it not be a great encouragement to many African doctors with excellent medical qualifications if a precedent were set and a first appointment made in this direction?

Mr. Mayhew

We should be willing to see posts occupied by Africans in that way, and that, is quite possible; but it so happens that so far the best available candidates happen to have been Europeans.

Mr. Rankin

Would it not also assist if African students were able to take the complete medical course at a West African university?

Mr. Mayhew

Perhaps I could have notice of that question.

Dr. Segal

While the best candidates may have been Europeans, would not the Minister accept as a principle that Africans, provided they have adequate qualifications, should have the right for appointment to these posts?

Mr. Mayhew

There is also the consideration that these health services are vitally important and must be run in the most effective way possible.