HC Deb 06 July 1961 vol 643 cc1646-7
36. Mr. Dugdale

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what consideration he has given to the Report of the Keir Committee appointed to inquire into the future of the Copperbelt Technical Foundation; what action he proposes to take in the matter; and if he will make a statement.

The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Iain Macleod)

The three sponsors of the Committee—the Copperbelt Technical Foundation, the Federal Government and the Government of Northern Rhodesia—have appointed a working party which is at present considering the Report and which will later advise on all its implications. So far as my responsibilities are involved I will of course give sympathetic consideration to whatever measures may finally be recommended by the sponsors of the Committee.

Mr. Dugdale

Is it not the case that the Committee has recommended the abolition of the colour bar in all technical schools? If this is so, will the right hon. Gentleman do his best to ensure that that important recommendation is implemented?

Mr. Macleod

Northern Rhodesia has made tremendous strides, as the right hon. Gentleman knows very well, in the last few years in this matter. I am sure that the best way of proceeding is by the working party, which I have indicated, and as soon as we have its report we shall be able to try to implement it.