HC Deb 27 January 1955 vol 536 cc396-7
4. Mr. Wade

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations whether he has any further progress to report on the social, economic, and political development of Bechuanaland, Basutoland, and Swaziland.

Mr. Dodds-Parker

I would refer the hon. Member to the reports on the three Territories in the Colonial Report series for information about progress under the first two heads. As I said in my reply to the hon. Member for Eton and Slough (Mr. Fenner Brockway) on 16th December, steady progress continues to be made.

Mr. Wade

Does the Minister not agree that the development policy for the Protectorates and further north only really helps to counteract the very serious consequences which may follow from more illiberal policies elsewhere? In view of the importance of this subject, can he say when he will be able to give more information on the programme for substantial further development referred to by him on 16th December?

Mr. Dodds-Parker

I hope, in due course, when the Colonial Development and Welfare Bill, which was issued to Members today, comes before the House, to be able to make a statement on that matter.