East Africa Industrial Council

HC Deb 20 July 1955 vol 544 c377

47. Mrs. White

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many Africans in Tanganyika are members of the East Africa Industrial Council.

Mr. Hopkinson

None, Sir. Nevertheless the Tanganyika Government in making their nominations to the Industrial Council always seek to draw on local industrial experience without regard to race.

Mrs. White

While it may be possible that not many Africans in Tanganyika are in a position to contribute much to this Council, is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are some who, I believe, could learn a good deal if they were made members of the Council and who would be of value in the future? Will they be considered in making further nominations to the Council?

Mr. Hopkinson

The object is to decide who are the best persons to represent each territory on this Council. Certainly the appointment of Africans, if it proved to be suitable, would not be excluded.