Colonial Office Conference, 1927. Summary of Proceedings, ‘Recruitment and Training of Colonial Civil Servants’, House of Commons Parliamentary Papers [Cmd. 2883] (1927), pp. 12–17

(a) The Conference had under consideration a comprehensive memorandum* dealing with recruitment since the Armistice for those branches of the Colonial Services for which men are selected by the Secretary of State with the assistance of his Private Secretary (Appointments). Major R. D. Furse, ¹ who, as Private Secretary for Appointments, had been responsible for recruitment under successive Secretaries of State since 1919, was present during the discussion. This memorandum shewed that during the post-war period great difficulties were faced in satisfying the requirements of Colonial Governments. There had been a demand for (a) about 60 per cent. more men per annum than in pre-war days; (b) a higher standard of quality in personnel; and (c) more, and better, training. It had therefore become evident 1

that special steps must be taken to stimulate recruiting and to make the fullest possible use of available material;

2

that in regard to certain scientific and technical departments there was a scarcity of candidates with the requisite personal qualifications and general as well as specialized education;

3

that the existing curricula in training institutions, whence the supply is drawn, were not fully in accordance with Colonial requirements.