HC Deb 10 December 1963 vol 686 cc198-9
12. Mr. Godman Irvine

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps have been taken in Fiji to implement the recommendations of the Burns Report on family planning

Mr. Fisher

The Government of Fiji have established a network of family planning clinics and advice is now available at over 50 rural hospitals, as compared with only five when the Burns Report was written. Two delegates went to the Seventh International Planned Parenthood Conference in Singapore this year. A Family Planning Association has been formed and, with Government assistance, this will supply family planning material and propaganda.

Mr. Godman Irvine

Is my hon. Friend aware that the number of attendances at family planning clinics in Fiji has remained virtually static during the past four years? In view of the importance of this matter in an island such as Fiji, does not my hon. Friend feel that an important programme of attack should be undertaken to deal with the problem?

Mr. Fisher

I agree with my hon. Friend. We are implementing the Burns Report, and recently the Executive Council decided on a big increase in the amount of publicity devoted to this objective.

Mr. K. Robinson

Is the Minister aware that an international family planning campaign was recently launched by the Family Planning Association and the International Planned Parenthood Campaign? Is it not incumbent upon Her Majesty's Government to give the maximum co-operation to this campaign not only in Fiji but throughout the Commonwealth?

Mr. Fisher

I agree with that, and I note what the hon. Gentleman says.

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