HC Deb 15 July 1953 vol 517 cc2034-5
36. Mr. Hale

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what progress has now been made with the survey of the incidence of onchocherchiasis in the Gold Coast, Cameroons and Nigeria entrusted to the British Empire Society for the Blind; whether sufficient finance is available to enable the full originally planned survey to be completed within three years; and what portion of the total cost will be borne from Government funds.

Mr. Lyttelton

The main survey began in the Gold Coast last November. It is hoped to extend it to Nigeria and the Cameroons early next year. The cost is being borne by the British Empire Society for the Blind, but the local Governments are providing medical facilities and accommodation. The Society inform me that although the scheme has proved a heavy drain on their finances, they hope to be able to complete the survey within the allotted time.

Mr. Hale

I am much obliged to the right hon. Gentleman and I am sure that that announcement will give a good deal of satisfaction, but, at the same time, is it not very deplorable that an important survey of this kind should depend on charitable subscriptions for its finance, and that, apparently, the Government are not paying a penny piece towards this very great service to the African people? Will the right hon. Gentleman reconsider the matter and discuss it with the Treasury and see if full financial help can be given?

Mr. Lyttelton

If the British Empire Society for the Blind, in which, I think, the hon. Gentleman knows that I take a very keen interest, should be short of money for this purpose, then another situation will arise.