§ 72. Mrs. Elizabeth Braddockasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies why the Colonial Office Welfare Advisory Committee in Liverpool was not consulted before it was decided to close the office there on 31st March, 1952; if he is aware that the proposed closing has created much concern among colonials in Merseyside; and if he will call the committee immediately to ascertain their opinions on the matter.
§ Mr. LytteltonThe reasons for my decision to close the Liverpool area office have been explained to the Chairman of 153W the Liverpool Advisory Committee and I understand that he is to hold an early meeting of the Committee. I recognise that this decision may cause some disappointment among people from the Colonies on Merseyside, but owing to the decline in business at the area office I cannot justify its continuance in view of the need to restrict Government spending.