§ 34. Mr. Stonehouseasked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what encouragement is being given in the formation and development of co-operative societies in the Bechuanaland Protectorate.
§ Mr. AlportThe laws of the Bechuanaland Protectorate make provision for the formation, registration and management of co-operative agricultural societies. The adviser to the Secretary of State for the Colonies on co-operation advised in 1955 that a marketing rather than a co-operative organisation was required in the Protectorate. This is under examination.
§ Mr. StonehouseIn view of the fact that it is generally agreed that co-operative societies can be of great assistance in the economic development of such countries as Bechuanaland, will the hon. Gentleman consider setting up a special department for co-operative development in the Protectorates?
§ Mr. AlportThe Protectorate Government have access to any expert advice they require with regard to any particular co-operative project. I can assure the hon. Member that any application that comes, either from the Protectorate Government through the High Commission or from the High Commission itself, will be carefully considered. We are anxious to give any help we can in this matter if required by the Government.
§ Mr. StonehouseWill the hon. Gentleman also make inquiries in this connection from the farmers themselves?
§ Mr. AlportIf the hon. Member is referring to representations made by the Bamangwato delegation which came over a short time ago, its views are being properly considered.