HC Deb 16 March 1967 vol 743 cc684-5
3. Mr. Judd

asked the Minister of Overseas Development what plans he has made, together with other Commonwealth Governments, for an extensive programme of further education, technical and professional training for non-European Rhodesians; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Oram

In accordance with the decision taken by Commonwealth Prime Minister at their meeting in Lagos in January, 1966, the British Government together with other Commonwealth Governments have agreed upon a special scheme for the education of Rhodesian Africans outside Rhodesia. Details of this scheme were announced by the Commonwealth Secretariat in July, 1966.

The British Government have so far given awards to 47 non-European Rhodesians to continue their education in Britain.

Mr. Judd

If we are serious in our endeavours to bring down the illegal Smith régime, ought we not to do contingency planning for a large-scale programme of education for Africans when the Smith Government falls?

Mr. Oram

There is a large problem awaiting solution, and we have entered into the contingency planning accordingly; but it is not within our power to take any direct action while the present illegal régime in Rhodesia persists.