HC Deb 13 April 1965 vol 710 cc1147-8
18. Dame Joan Vickers

asked the Minister of Overseas Development what arrangements she is making to send a senior welfare officer to the Bahamas to help with the planning and organisation of a department of welfare for the islands.

Mr. Oram

An experienced officer has been found for the post of Adviser on Social Development, Bahamas, and is expected to take up his appointment later this month.

Dame Joan Vickers

May I ask the hon. Gentleman how long this appointment is going to last, and whether it will be part of this officer's duty to train local personnel for work in this service? For some time there has been a Minister of Welfare without an office, or a secretary to help him, and I think that the Department should be set up properly.

Mr. Oram

I am afraid that, without notice, I am unable to say how long this appointment will last, but I am fully confident that the functions which the hon. Lady has in mind will be fulfilled by this officer.