asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what action has been taken to increase the staff and facilities of the West African Cocoa Research Institute, as recommended by the expert commission four months ago.

Their requirements have been formulated by the managing committee of the Institute, and urgent action to meet them is being taken here and in the Gold Coast.

Can the Under-Secretary say when that action is likely to be implemented, as there is a certain urgency about it?

In the case of technicians, quite a number have gone out or are being engaged locally. In the case of buildings, of course, it will take a considerable time to get them erected.