§ Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLEasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether any of the grants made in connection with colonial development have been up to the present productive of employment in this country for British workers; and, if so, whether he can indicate the nature of such work and the number of workers affected?
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§ Dr. SHIELSThe grants made from the Colonial Development Fund involve, as the hon. Member will see if he studies the White Paper which was published last month, the placing of considerable orders, and consequently the provision of considerable employment, in this country. I cannot add to the statistical and other information published in the White Paper. Arrangements for carrying out the works assisted from the Fund are made by the Colonial Administrations concerned. The Secretary of State has asked the Colonial Governments to submit half-yearly progress reports, which will include statements of the amounts expended in this country, and when some of these have been received I shall be in a position to give fuller information.