§ 67. Mr. Russellasked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what plans he has for expanding the information services of his Department.
§ Lord John HopeThere has been a steady expansion of information services in the Commonwealth over the last few years. During the current financial year, two new information offices are being opened in Canada—in Quebec and Vancouver; a new information office is being opened in Cape Town and extra staff are being sent out to reinforce existing offices in India and Pakistan.
My noble Friend is fully aware of the importance of good information services in the Commonwealth, and is at present considering plans for further expansion. The hon. Member will, however, realise that the present financial situation, and the need to restrain Government expenditure, are factors in the situation which have to be faced.
§ 68. Mr. Russellasked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations how many United Kingdom-based information officers are employed by his Department in Commonwealth countries; and how many of these have had practical training in journalism and advertising.
§ Lord John HopeThirty United Kingdom-based information officers are employed by my Department in Commonwealth countries and, of these, 11 have had previous experience in journalism or advertising.