§ 5. Mr. Roebuckasked the Minister of Overseas Development what steps he is taking, in view of the need to stimulate world food production, to encourage young scientists, particularly agricultural scientists, to prepare themselves for work in developing countries.
§ Mr. OramWe now provide a comprehensive scheme of postgraduate studentships. It covers agricultural, veterinary and other natural resources subjects. Academic study and practical training can both be provided, in Britain or overseas. Recipients of these studentships are expected to work for several years afterwards in developing countries.
§ Mr. RoebuckIs my hon. Friend aware that that answer will give great satisfaction to those of us who believe that the best way to help the developing countries is by teaching them to help themselves? Can he say how students 2107 can obtain more information about the scheme, how many awards there are, and what is the amount of money involved?
§ Mr. OramI welcome the first part of my hon. Friend's supplementary question. As for finding out more about the scheme, we have prepared a special pamphlet which is being distributed to universities and other institutions. For the present year, up to 40 awards will be available, and this year's selection process is well under way. The estimated cost of this Natural Resources Scheme is £55,000 in the current financial year.
§ Mr. Scott-HopkinsCan the hon. Gentleman say what help we are giving through the F.A.O. in Rome and its subsidiary organisations dealing with the developing countries?
§ Mr. OramWe take a full part in the conferences and committees of the F.A.O., and we make a general subscription to its funds which is available for training.