§ 50. Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieuasked the Secretary of State for Foregin Affairs whether he is aware that British Council hostels for university students in Manchester and Leeds are to be closed as an economy measure; and whether, in view of the difficulties for colonial students which are likely to result, he will make funds available to the Council for the purpose of maintaining these hostels.
§ Mr. YoungerI would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given on 11th April by my right hon. Friend the Colonial Secretary.
§ Mr. MallalieuIs my hon. Friend not aware that that reply still leaves the colonial students concerned, in considerable difficulty and in danger of real embarrassment? Would it not be possible to reverse the original decision?
§ Mr. YoungerI think there may be a slight misunderstanding here. So far as the colonial students are concerned, money is available from the Colonial Development and Welfare Fund, and my right hon. Friend explained to the House the other day that alternative arrangements can be made for the use of the Fund satisfactorily to the students themselves.