HC Deb 27 July 1949 vol 467 c2464
42. Mr. R. Robinson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies when it is expected that the 28 American geologists and associated scientists mentioned in Command Paper No. 7715, paragraph 291, will be temporarily attached to the Colonial Geological Survey Service; and what work it is proposed to assign to them.

Mr. Rees-Williams

Negotiations with the Economic Co-operation Administration on conditions of employment have now reached an advanced stage and it is hoped that recruitment will begin in the near future. These technicians will supplement existing geological establishments in the Colonies.

Mr. Robinson

Can the hon. Gentleman say how soon this excellent plan will become a reality?

Mr. Rees-Williams

Quite soon. We have had the preliminary proposals from the Americans and sent them to the Colonies for their approval.