§ 57. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies to what extent the British Council is now exercising responsibility for meeting the needs of Colonial students in this country; what funds have been put at the disposal of the Council for this purpose; and whether other recognised organisations such as the West African Students' Union will receive grants either directly from the Government or through the British Council.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsThe Council is now responsible, on behalf of the Colonial Office, for the reception and accommodation of Colonial students and for arrangements for social and other amenities. Four hundred and twenty-five thousand pounds have been earmarked under the Colonial Development and Welfare Act to cover the Council's work for Colonial students up to March, 1954. The West African Students' Union, and certain other organisations concerned with Colonial students' welfare, already receive grants from Colonial Governments paid through the Colonial Office.
§ Mr. SorensenIs my right hon. Friend aware that although that may be true they receive next to nothing while in this country? Is it not possible to reconsider this matter, in view of the very fine work that bodies like the West African Students' Union are doing?
§ Mr. GriffithsI know my hon. Friend's very keen interest in the matter, and I would like to discuss it with him.
§ Mr. Peter SmithersWill the right hon. Gentleman say what arrangements have been made for the student bodies to make their wishes known to the Council and whether, if a student council has been set up, it is elected by the students or whether the students are appointed on it?
§ Mr. GriffithsI think the arrangements are very well known. Perhaps the hon. Member will put a question down about the second part of his supplementary question.