Co-operative Department

HC Deb 10 March 1959 vol 601 cc1062-3

17. Mr. Pargiter

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what are the qualifications required by members of the staff of the Co-operative Department of Nyasaland; what are the numbers of Africans and Europeans, respectively, who are employed by the Department; and what is the number of Africans who occupy senior positions.

Mr. J. Amery

I have asked the Governor to provide this information and, when it is available, I will circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. Pargiter

Is it not rather unusual that such information is not more readily available? Will the hon. Gentleman inquire whether there is any machinery, and if so the methods, for recruiting for co-operative posts, because I understand that many well qualified African applicants for this kind of work are passed over in favour of Europeans less well qualified?

Mr. Amery

I do not think it surprising that we should not yet have the particulars here in London, as we have had only 48 hours to get them.