HC Deb 04 February 1948 vol 446 c1781
38. Mr. John Morrison

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps are being taken to recruit staff to deal with prevalent disease among cocoa trees in West Africa.

Mr. Creech Jones

Of the 24 Cocoa Survey Officers required by the Gold Coast Government for the campaign to eradicate disease among cocoa trees, 20 have already been recruited of whom all but two have sailed. Offers of appointment have been sent to a further three candidates and the remaining vacancy is in process of being filled. Any additional staff required will be obtained.

Mr. Scollan

Would the Minister take steps to try to send out the B.M.A.?

Mr. T. Reid

Will there be any compulsory powers to induce people to cut out dead and diseased cocoa trees?

Mr. Creech Jones

The treatment of the disease is another matter. If my hon. Friend will put down a Question I will answer it.

Mr. Bossom

Could the Minister say how long it is since he was first asked to send out these people, and how many have arrived? He said just now that a small number had arrived. How long ago were they invited?

Mr. Creech Jones

I cannot give the date of invitation, but practically all the officers have now been selected and many of them are there. Others are on the way.