HC Deb 13 July 1966 vol 731 cc222-3W
Mr. Hornby

asked the Minister of Overseas Development whether he will place a copy of the Porter Report on the Economic Development of Bechuanaland in the Library.

Mr. Lubbock

asked the Minister of Overseas Development if he will place in the Library of the House of Commons a copy of the Report on the Development of the Bechuanaland Economy which has been prepared by his Department.

Mr. Greenwood

This Report was made to the British Government and to the Government of Bechuanaland by an Economic Mission appointed in 1965 by my predecessor, with the agreement of the Bechuanaland Government. The Report is at present under consideration by the two Governments and the question of its publication must await discussions with the Bechuanaland Government during the current financial talks.

Mr. Fisher

asked the Minister of Overseas Development what is his estimate of the amount of capital expenditure required for school development in Bechuanaland, and the amount of current expenditure to which this will give rise.

Mr. Greenwood

These are questions which I am discussing with the Bechuanaland Government during the financial talks now being held in London.

Mr. Fisher

asked the Minister of Overseas Development what is his estimate of the amount of development money needed annually by Bechuanaland for the next rive years.

Mr. Greenwood

I am at present discussing Bechuanaland's future development needs with the Bechuanaland Government.

Mr. Fisher

asked the Minister of Overseas Development what is his estimate of the amount of capital investment required in Bechuanaland initially and for the next three years to develop the copper potential of the territory.

Mr. Greenwood

Bechuanaland's copper resources are still being explored. Present information suggests that the costs of development, including the provision of basic services, would be substantial, but I could not give precise figures without further detailed study of all the economic and technical aspects.

Mr. Fisher

asked the Minister of Overseas Development what is his estimate of the amount of money needed annually by Bechuanaland in grant-in-aid of administration for the next five years.

Mr. Greenwood

I am discussing Bechuanaland's future need for budgetary assistance during the current financial talks with a delegation from that country.