HC Deb 26 November 1964 vol 702 cc1449-50
6. Mr. Dempsey

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what proposals he has for the expansion of educational facilities for those territories which come within his jurisdiction; and if he will consult representatives of these Territories towards this end.

Mrs. White

I recognise the need for continued improvement of educational facilities, especially at the secondary and higher levels. But it must be for the Government of each territory to consider the weight which this should carry in its overall development plans, having regard to other priorities and to available resources. Her Majesty's Government provide a major part of those resources through the C.D. & W. Act. Aid for education is also provided through the Overseas Service Aid Scheme and the Commonwealth Teachers Acts. The Colonial Office and Ministry of Overseas Development, working in co-operation, maintain close consultation with the territorial Governments about their plans.

Mr. Dempsey

Is my hon. Friend aware that there is growing concern at the number of young children at the early age of nine who cease to have any further schooling in order to become domestic drudges for many white masters? Will she not agree, as we have some responsibility for these Colonies, that the very success of self-government depends to a great extent on a sound educational system, and will she lend her good offices by consultation with the representatives referred to in my Question to bring that about?

Mrs. White

I am indeed aware of the importance of education to any Territory on its way to self-government. In many of these Territories there has been inadequate expenditure in the past under the former Government, but we will certainly do our best to see that some of the deficiencies of the past are made up in the next few years.

Mr. Longbottom

Would the hon. Lady inform the House how far the responsibility of her Department goes in educational facilities in the Colonies, how far the Ministry of Overseas Development comes into the picture, and exactly what the co-ordination will be between these two Departments?

Mrs. White

In general terms, my right hon. Friend the Colonial Secretary is responsible for the overall development plans of the Territories, of course in consultation with the Ministry of Overseas Development. As to higher education, the Ministry of Overseas Development normally is in direct touch with universities and comparable institutions.

Mr. Fisher

Since the hon. Lady has introduced a party note into her answers, would she not acknowledge that there is a limit —she will certainly find it very soon, if she has not done so already —to the amount of money available for these smaller Territories and that there are other claims, such as economic development, which are in the future revenue-producing to the Territory? Although I do not decry the importance of education, it must be taken in relation to other demands.

Mrs. White

If the hon. Gentleman would be good enough to study my original Answer in HANSARD, he will see that the point he made has been covered in it. I would point out that the contentious matter was raised by one of his hon. Friends.

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