59. Mr. Dugdaloasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies why actual expenditure on colonial development and welfare schemes during the year ended 31st March, 1957, was little more than two-thirds of the amount available.
§ Mr. ProfumoOf the £220 million made available under the Colonial Development and Welfare Acts, 1945 to 1955, £178 million had been committed to approved schemes by the 1st April, 1957, and just over £135 million had been spent. The main factor which governs the rate of expenditure is the capacity of Colonial Governments to execute development works. This capacity has steadily increased and is expected to increase more rapidly in the future.
Mr. DugdaleIn view of the need for colonial development, which is admitted on both sides of the House, is it not most unfortunate that there should be this underspending of moneys voted by Parliament for that purpose?
§ Mr. ProfumoIt may be unfortunate, but I have told the right hon. Gentleman the limitations which exist.