asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies on what qualifications and recommendations appointments are being made by his Department of the development officers now being sent out to Nigeria.

Mr. Creech Jones:

The essential qualification for development officers in Nigeria is that they should be the type of men capable of obtaining the cooperation of Africans in the large schemes now being undertaken. In addition, for some of the posts, previous agricultural or veterinary experience is required. Candidates are selected, as for other appointments in the Colonial Service, by competitive selection based on record and personal interview.

How can my right hon. Friend account for the fact that out of the first ten development officers who went out to Nigeria four were returned home as unsuitable, and that the same thing applies to some 50 per cent. of those who have gone out since?

Mr. Creech Jones:

I certainly do not accept the statement of my hon. Friend but I shall be glad to have any information on the subject which he possesses.

Mr. Hector. Hughes:

Can my right hon. Friend say how many of these development officers are to be appointed in Nigeria and when they are to be appointed?

Mr. Creech Jones:

I cannot say without notice.