HC Deb 22 January 1970 vol 794 cc674-5
15. Mr. Dodds-Parker

asked the Minister of Overseas Development what action is being taken by her Department to increase the availability of surveyors for work needed overseas, especially in the West Indies.

Mrs. Hart

My Department is able in most instances to meet the requests received from overseas Governments, including the West Indies, to recruit surveyors. In addition, the Department arranges training in this country, again at the request of the Governments concerned.

Mr. Dodds-Parker

Is the right hon. Lady aware that I have information that there is a shortage? Will she consider consulting professional bodies and others which have done such excellent work, such as Voluntary Service Overseas, to see whether individuals could not be made available to fill the gap?

Mrs. Hart

I have before me complete details of the existing vacancies and the recruitment efforts that we are making. Broadly, where there are vacancies, we are able to recruit, but the process is bound to take a short time. If the hon. Gentleman would like more information about this, I will gladly send it to him.

Mr. Speaker

Mr. Tilney.

Mr. Tilney

Question No. 18.

Mr. Hooley

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. You have not called Question No. 16.

Mr. Speaker

Order. Unfortunately, the hon. Gentleman was not here when his Question was answered with No. 3.

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