HC Deb 04 February 1948 vol 446 cc275-6W
13. Mr. Parker

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies why the medical programme authorised for the Solomon Islands in 1946 has been cut down and when it is to be carried out.

Mr. Creech Jones

There is no question of an approved scheme having been cut down. The programme for the development of the medical services of the Protectorate covers a period of ten years and is being carried out by stages. An interim Colonial Development and Welfare scheme was, pending my approval of the overall plan of development, begun last year as a priority measure. It is possible that, on certain items, not as much progress has been made as was hoped. A further scheme, representing the second instalment of the full medical programme, is now under consideration.