§ Mr. Stratton Millsasked the Minister of Overseas Development if she will make a statement about the introductory course run by Overseas Service for persons intending to serve overseas.
§ Mr. OramMy Ministry has, since October, 1964, been making greatly increased use of the introductory courses conducted by the Overseas Service College at Farnham Castle. From October, 1964, to the end of July, 1965, 330 individuals sponsored by the Ministry will have attended these courses. Another 80 will attend courses in August and September and 200 are expected to attend in the period October, 1965 to March 1966. Future arrangements are to be reviewed in the autumn.
The content of the courses covers the sociogeographical background of the countries concerned and is drawn up by the Overseas Service College after consultation with the Ministry. Special courses for teachers going to East and Central Africa have been arranged. It is considered that, within the five days available, the courses provide an effective and useful introduction to service overseas.