HC Deb 28 July 1960 vol 627 cc1837-8
20. Mr. Emery

asked the Minister of State for Commonwealth Relations whether he can yet make a statement with regard to the appointment of a development administrator to the staff of the High Commissioner for Bechuanaland, Basutoland and Swaziland, following the report of the Economic Survey Mission.

Mr. Alport

As I stated in reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Haltemprice (Mr. Wall) on 26th July, the report and the High Commissioner's comments thereon are being studied. Meanwhile the High Commissioner has appointed as Development Adviser for the High Commission Territories Sir Gordon Hadow, who was a member of the Mission, and previously had extensive experience in administration in West Africa.

Sir Arthur Griffin, who has given most valuable service since 1956 as Adviser to the High Commissioner on Economic Development, has relinquished that post, but I am glad to say that he has agreed to continue to give advice in an honorary capacity on communications in Swaziland, of which he has made a special study.

Mr. Emery

Does my right hon. Friend realise that many hon. Members will be particularly indebted to Mr. Morse and his mission for the very extensive work which they have produced? Five hundred and fifty-one pages is a little much to take in in the twenty-four hours since the report was issued. Will the Government provide the extra money for both the capital and the administrative expenditure which is envisaged if the steps outlined in the report are to be taken?

Mr. Alport

It is precisely the question of what assistance can be given by the United Kingdom that we are at present considering.

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