HC Deb 26 February 1947 vol 433 cc281-2W
78. Captain Field

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what progress is being made with the development plan for Nyasaland.

Mr. Creech Jones

I have recently received from Nyasaland final proposals for the Postwar Development Programme. They are now under active consideration.

79. Captain Field

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that there is a shortage of labour in Nyasaland; and what steps are being taken to encourge African workers to work in the territory rather than elsewhere.

Mr. Creech Jones

According to my information, the present shortage of labour in Nyasaland is not due to increased emigration but rather to the continued insufficiency of consumer goods and consequent lack of incentive to seek local employment. As regards the second part of the Question, it is the policy of His Majesty's Government to promote the general development of the territory to the utmost possible extent, so as to increase the economic inducements and opportunities available for the worker within his own country.

80. Captain Field

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies when the Clay Report on agricultural development in Nyasaland will be published.

Mr. Creech Jones

While employed as Joint Development Adviser to the Governments of Northern Rhodesia and Nyasaland, Mr. Clay was not called upon to produce a special report on agricultural development in Nyasaland. His advice was however available on this subject, which is covered very fully by plans prepared by the Director of Agriculture, Nyasaland, as part of the general development programme now under active consideration in the Colonial Office.