HC Deb 23 February 1961 vol 635 cc767-8
9. Mr. Callaghan

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what reply has been made to the petition presented by the Basuto National Party expressing its concern at the increase in general poverty in the territory and requesting money, technical assistance and advice in order to raise the standard of living of the people.

Mr. Sandys

The reply which was sent to the Basutoland National Party on 3rd February stated that the High Commissioner and all members of the Executive Council of Basutoland were very concious of the need to develop and expand the economy, and that every effort was being made to obtain financial and technical assistance for this purpose.

Mr. Callaghan

Is the Secretary of State aware—as he is, but I put this to him—that it is essential that this territory should be made an object lesson for surrounding territories, particularly South Africa, and that it is vital, therefore, that the degree of technical aid and monetary assistance that we are giving to the territory should be stepped up?

Mr. Sandys

That is what we would all like.