§ 21. Mr. Stonehouseasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps he is taking to increase the provision of secondary education in Northern Rhodesia.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodThe Northern Rhodesia Government have provided in their current development plan for a substantial increase in the existing facilities for Africans at all levels of secondary education, as well as improving courses and facilities at existing schools.
§ Mr. StonehouseIn view of the fact that great concern has been felt on both sides of the House about the provision for secondary education since the matter was raised by my hon. Friend the Member for Newcastle-under-Lyme (Mr. Swingler), will the Colonial Secretary pay special attention to this problem and consider sending out an educational expert to see if the dynamic can be increased?
§ Mr. MacleodI am always looking for ways to help in this particular problem. I shall certainly consider that suggestion.
§ Mr. SwinglerWhen the Colonial Secretary talks about a substantial increase and a substantial amount being done now, does he recall that last week his hon. Friend told me that, by 1963, only 2 per cent. of African children will get secondary education in Northern Rhodesia and less than 1½ per cent. in Nyasaland? Does not he agree that this matter requires urgent action?
§ Mr. MacleodI agree that the figures are very small indeed. These two Territories are spending a high percentage of their current budgets on the problems of education. Where I can help them through the Colonial Development and Welfare Fund I shall do so.