HC Deb 20 October 1954 vol 531 c1183
10. Mr. Benn

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what Government social services, covering sickness, unemployment, old age and children's allowances are provided in Uganda, Tanganyika, Kenya, Nyasaland and Northern Rhodesia; and what is the expenditure of their respective Governments upon them.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

If the hon. Member is referring to social security schemes providing cash benefits in the contingencies mentioned in his Question, none exist except a limited old-age pension scheme in Northern Rhodesia: but the social services provided by these Governments include, of course, free or subsidised medical and hospital services, poor relief from public funds and employment exchanges, except in Nyasaland. Legislation also covers workmen's compensation and the provision of sick benefits by employers.

Mr. Benn

Can the Minister say what plans he has to inform these Governments that apparently it is the object of Her Majesty's Government to encourage social and economic advances of this kind?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Anybody who has had dealings with these Governments knows that there is no need to prod them on the matter. They have it constantly in their view.