HC Deb 27 January 1958 vol 581 cc6-7
5. Mr. Swingler

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what exchange arrangements for students and teachers at present exist between the United Kingdom and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics; on whose initiative these arrangements were made; and what steps are being taken to extend them.

Mr. Ian Harvey

There is a growing number of interchanges of visits by students and teachers between this country and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, many of which are organised on the initiative, and with the support, of the Soviet Relations Committee of the British Council.

This Committee has, in particular, invited, in partnership with the British youth organisations concerned, three hundred Russian students and young people to visit this country for short periods. The Committee has also offered to the Soviet authorities an annual exchange of twenty students of the Russian and English languages, as well as two British Council scholarships for a full academic year and short courses for teachers, both on a reciprocal basis. The Soviet Government are now considering these proposals. Her Majesty's Government look forward to additional programmes if those at present under discussion are successfully concluded.

Mr. Swingler

While thanking the Joint Under-Secretary of State very much for that very encouraging answer, may I ask whether he would encourage his right hon. Friend the Minister of Education to consider making an official approach to his counterpart in the Soviet Union, from whom on this matter he may get a favourable response, in order to see whether by discussions between Ministries on both sides they might be able to improve on the very encouraging developments?

Mr. Harvey

These questions of cultural exchanges are at present very much under consideration, and I think that the hon. Member should await further developments.

Mr. Mayhew

Is the Minister aware of the very helpful co-operation in these exchanges given by universities and training colleges, and will he make it clear that if an expansion of these facilities is required these institutions will be helping towards understanding between the countries in a manner acceptable both to the British and to the Soviet Government.

Mr. Harvey

Yes, Sir. I agree with both points.

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