HC Deb 30 March 1961 vol 637 c1526
54. Mr. G. M. Thomson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is now in a position to make a statement on the financial review of the Colonial Development Corporation.

The Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Hugh Fraser)

We have been able to make progress recently on this matter, and, although I am not in a position to make a statement today, my right hon. Friend looks forward to doing so very shortly after the Recess.

Mr. Thomson

That is a very disappointing Answer. The Secretary of State undertook to make a statement before the Easter Recess. Does the hon. Gentleman realise that these delays make us more and more suspicious about the kind of pressure which is being exerted on his Department by the Treasury and that we shall, therefore, view his statement when it comes with very great care?

Mr. Fraser

I hope that the hon. Member will do that. My right hon. Friend said that he would try to make a statement before the Recess. This has proved impossible. We look forward to the comments of the hon. Member when the statement is made.