High Commission Territories (Development)

HC Deb 27 October 1955 vol 545 cc360-1

25. Mr. Fenner Brockway

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations if he will make a statement on the plans for economic and social development in the High Commission Territories of Basutoland, Bechuanaland Protectorate and Swaziland.

Mr. Dodds-Parker

I would refer the hon. Member to Command Paper No. 9580 on the economic development and social services of the High Commission Territories published at the beginning of this month.

Mr. Brockway

I have read that document, but in view of the position of the Protectorates in South Africa and the need to make those territories models of social progress, may I ask the hon. Gentleman whether he could not get the Treasury or the Colonial Office or his own office to make a larger grant for this purpose?

Mr. Dodds-Parker

If the hon. Member looks at what is being done, he will find that very steady progress is being made, which both sides of the House can regard with satisfaction.