3. Mr. Colin Jacksonasked the Minister of Overseas Development how many overseas students have been placed in practical training by his Department 1366 since May, 1965; and how many applications were received from persons who could not be placed.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Overseas Development (Mr. A. E. Oram)1,888 have been placed: no precise details of unsuccessful applications are available, but the number is very small.
Mr. JacksonDoes that very small number include private students, as opposed to sponsored students, who wish to receive training? The hon. Gentleman will, of course, realise that these private students are also valuable subsequently in promoting commercial relations between Britain and overseas territories.
§ Mr. OramNo, I am afraid that the figure does not include the private students. The Ministry operates under our technical assistance arrangements only for trainees put forward by overseas Governments. We are not responsible for private schemes.
§ Mr. MartenHave any been placed in technical colleges in this country and, if so, how many?
§ Mr. OramI have not that information, but if the hon. Gentleman puts down a Question I will gladly answer it.