HC Deb 02 May 1951 vol 487 cc1173-4
31. Mr. Peter Smithers

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps have been taken to improve facilities for technical education in Barbados in view of the recommendations of the Select Committee on Vocational and Technical Training which commenced its work in 1946.

Mr. J. Griffiths

The Report of the Select Committee was received late in 1949 and, as its principal recommendation for the establishment of a training centre involved a capital expenditure of 334,000 dollars and a recurrent expenditure of 24,500 dollars per annum, consideration of this project was deferred by the Barbados Government pending the completion of a fiscal survey of the Island which is not yet ready.

Meantime, the Governor reports that 109 apprentices are being trained under the local Apprenticeship Bursaries Act; 330 men are receiving part-time training in motor engineering, electricity, building and architecture at evening institutes; and 1,755 women are receiving part-time instruction in domestic subjects at housecraft centres or in various rural centres.