§ 8. Mr. Wallasked the Minister of State for Commonwealth Relations to what degree the administrative staff in Basutoland is below establishment.
§ Mr. R. ThompsonThe establishment is 33, and there are seven vacancies.
§ Mr. WallDoes my hon. Friend agree that, besides their normal work, the administrative officers in the Protectorate now have to carry out the administration of what amounts to a Parliamentary system in addition to their normal work? Does he not agree that there is a case for increasing the establishment, and will he try to recruit from England rather than from South Africa?
§ Mr. ThompsonI am aware of the seriousness of the position in Basutoland. The Colonial Office, which recruits candidates for administrative posts in this country, is making every endeavour to fill the vacancies, but there is a shortage of candidates for the Overseas Civil Service generally. Steps are also being taken to find suitable Basuto to fill some of these vacancies.