26 MARCH 1954, Page 16

THE AFRICA BUREAU

SIR,—It has become-clear during the past few years that there is a growing need in this country for a reliable centre of information on events and attitudes in the different parts of British Africa. Frequently the British public, press and even Parliament have been caught unprepared by incidents in Africa which have seriously damaged the relations between us and our African friends.

At the same time a parallel need has deve- loped for some means of maintaining constant contact between the British people and the various communities in Africa and proViding facilities for the latter to inform the British public of their views.

The Africa Bureau, which is supported by members of the three political parties, trade unions, churches, co-operatives, and by branches of the United Nations Association, is attempting to supply both these needs. It is building up a research-information service, and. at the same time, providing the facilities for African delegations and leaders to express themselves to the British public.

Already the Africa Bureau has accomplished nearly two years' valuable work in these directions, but it is difficult in these days fe sustain an organisation of this kind, however great a need it fulfils. But many sections of the British public have expressed their con- cern over African events in recent times and wondered what they themselves could do to improve British-African relations. Here is the opportunity to take a practical concern. Con- tributions should be sent to The Africa Bureau, 69 Great Peter Street, London, S.W.1, —Yours faithfully,