asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will consider the advisability and possibility of establishing a subordinate medical service in West Africa on the lines of that which has for many years done most useful work under the Indian Medical Service?

The whole question of medical services in West Africa is now under consideration in the Colonial Office, and I can assure my hon. Friend that the provision of African medical auxiliaries of all grades, as well as fully qualified medical officers, has already made considerable progress and will undoubtedly be extensively developed as increased training facilities become available.

When is the report of that investigation likely to be available to hon. Members?

It is not a report that is made available to hon. Members; it is not a report by a committte. I shall, of course, announce any decisions to the House.