HC Deb 06 November 1962 vol 666 cc770-1
1. Mr. Healey

asked the Secretary for Technical Co-operation what steps he is taking to publicise the Teachers for Africa programme in British schools, training colleges, and universities.

The Secretary for Technical Cooperation (Mr. Dennis Vosper)

Continuous publicity is undertaken with other bodies to increase the flow of teachers to overseas developing countries. Special measures are being taken for the Teachers for East Africa Scheme. My Department has begun a series of visits to university appointments boards and departments of education. A pamphlet has been prepared and will be distributed with a brochure on teaching service overseas. Advertisements will appear in educational journals.

Mr. Healey

While welcoming this news, may I draw the Minister's attention to the fact that there are still thousands of young men and women in British educational establishments who would greatly welcome an opportunity to serve in this scheme but who, at the moment, are quite unaware of how to apply and what the details are? Will the right hon. Gentleman again look into the question of publicity to make sure that in future they will be fully acquainted with all the details?

Mr. Vosper

I am glad to hear the first part of the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question, because I shall have some 800 vacancies to fill in the next few months. I have been much concerned with this matter and have reorganised this side of my Department. Any suggestion which the hon. Gentleman or any other hon. Member can make to help in recruitment will be very welcome.

Mr. Dugdale

Will the right hon. Gentleman pay particular attention to the need for teachers of the handicapped in Africa? This is a very great problem indeed.

Mr. Vosper

I know the right hon. Gentleman's interest in this matter. On the whole, my demands for this form of teacher are more limited, but I will do what I can.

Mr. Marten

Is my right hon. Friend aware that Hampshire County Council is trying to engage teachers for future work with that local education authority provided they are prepared to serve three years overseas beforehand, and will he look into this and perhaps advise other local education authorities about it?

Mr. Vosper

I am very well aware of Hampshire's lead in this field and I would certainly commend its approach in this matter to other local authorities.