HC Deb 29 June 1967 vol 749 cc729-30
16. Mr. Pavitt

asked the Minister of Overseas Development what facilities are available to experts contracted to give technical assistance in the fields of agriculture, banking, insurance, consumers stores and rural development to have short courses on the history, law and principles and practice of co-operative societies.

Mr. Oram

If the tasks for which such experts were recruited required knowledge of these matters which the expert did not already have, the Ministry would be prepared to consider arranging suitable instruction at a competent institution such as the Co-operative College or Plunkett Foundation.

Mr. Pavitt

While I thank my hon. Friend for that reply, may I ask him to expedite the matter further, especially with a view to giving the necessary publicity to the fact that this kind of facility will be available from his Ministry?

Mr. Oram

I think that my hon. Friend knows that the Advisory Committee on Co-operatives is at present considering various initiatives, and we are in close touch with the Principal of the Co-operative College, but I would prefer to say no more. I cannot anticipate what the discussions will lead to.