HC Deb 10 July 1958 vol 591 cc553-5
5. Mr. R. Edwards

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what is the number of Africans and Europeans, respectively, employed by the co-operative movement in Sierra Leone; what steps are being taken to train Africans for responsible positions in the co-operative rice and cocoa societies; and what amounts are being allocated to the development of co-operatives for the year 1958–59.

Mr. Profumo

One hundred and fifty Africans and no Europeans are employed by the co-operative societies, eight Europeans and 115 Africans by the Government co-operative department. Training courses are organised by the department. The sum of £67,100 is provided for development of co-operatives in 1958–59.

Mr. Edwards

I thank the hon. Member for that very detailed reply to my Question. Does he not agree that one of the most effective ways of developing democratic experience in territories like Sierra Leone is to develop a co-operative activity? Does he not also agree that in Sierra Leone only a very small percentage of the population is engaged in these activities? Indeed, I think it is the smallest proportion of population in the whole of West Africa. Does he not further agree that in the light of these facts more encouragement should be given and more money spent upon training competent co-operative workers?

Mr. Speaker

That supplementary question is too long.

Mr. Profumo

I am not sure that agree with the hon. Member's last point, but I can tell him that considerably more progress has been made under a Conservative Government than under the previous Government.