§ 25. Mr. F. Noel-Bakerasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many Colonial officials from the United Kingdom will be retained in the administration in Cyprus after 31st July and 29th February next, respectively; how many are now employed in that administration; and what compensation or alternative 1500 employment will be offered to the remainder.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydThere are now 131 permanent officers, 282 (including 275 United Kingdom Police) on secondment and 219 on contract. By 31st July there will be 21 fewer. It is too soon to forecast with certainty the position after the transfer of power, but it seems likely that there will only be a few professional and technical officers remaining in the service of the Republican Government.
With regard to compensation, I would refer the hon. Member to the documents which have been placed in the Library.
The Overseas Service Resettlement Bureau will help in finding alternative employment, and those who wish for further employment in the overseas territories are being considered for appointments as and when vacancies arise.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerYes, but will the Secretary of State bear in mind that, particularly in the case of some of the senior permanent officers, they are facing a very difficult future indeed? Will the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that he will do everything he can to help them in the most sympathetic possible way?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydYes. They, with whom I am in constant and close touch, know that very well.