HC Deb 03 May 1950 vol 474 c1663
17. Mr. York

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will make a statement as to the directions he will give to the Colonial Development Corporation before starting any large-scale agricultural ventures, to institute pilot schemes in order to test the practicability of the venture.

Mr. J. Griffiths

There is no necessity for any general directions to the Corporation applying especially to agricultural projects; the question whether large-scale agricultural projects should be preceded by pilot schemes is one for determination by the Corporation in the individual case.

Mr. York

In view of the fact that, as acknowledged, a great deal of money has been wasted upon the Gambia project, will the Secretary of State make it clear that before the beef raising scheme in the Kalahari is proceeded with a pilot scheme will be instituted?

Mr. Griffiths

I do not know who acknowledges that there has been waste in the Gambia scheme. I do not.

Mr. Godfrey Nicholson

Do we understand the Secretary of State to say that it has been left to the Overseas Food Corporation to decide whether pilot schemes were necessary or not?

Mr. Griffiths

It is for the Corporation to decide whether any major scheme should be preceded by a pilot scheme.

Mr. Nicholson

Is that a change of policy?