HC Deb 23 March 1949 vol 463 cc352-3
14. Mr. M. Philips Price

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a statement about the forthcoming Conference on co-operation between France, Belgium, Portugal and this country with regard to scientific and technological co-operation in tropical Africa; and who will be the British representatives.

Mr. Creech Jones

I assume that my hon. Friend is referring to the African Regional Scientific Conference which is being convened in South Africa by the Government of the Union next October. His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom are among the Governments to whom invitations have been sent.

Mr. Philips Price

Is it not desirable, in view of the fourth point in President Truman's inaugural address, to prepare the ground for co-operation in Africa between the countries of Western Europe, who have colonies there?

Mr. Creech Jones

This is a technical conference. The Agenda is likely to cover a wide field and representatives of our own Colonial Governments will undoubtedly take part in it.