§ 39. Captain P. MACDONALDasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his forthcoming visit to the East African dependencies will be of an official nature; and whether he will make use of this opportunity to discuss with the authorities in those territories the advisability of taking early action with regard to the Congo Basin treaties?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI am hoping, during the Christmas Recess, to pay a short visit by air to East Africa. As in the case of my recent tour in the Near East, the visit will be of an informal nature. My object is to obtain some first-hand knowledge of conditions in the territories to be visited and to meet in person members of the various local communities, both official and un-official. This will give me the opportunity of discussing with the authorities in each territory any important questions 871 of interest to them, an opportunity which I found of great value in Palestine and Cyprus.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODWill the right hon. Gentleman meet any representatives of the Indians or the natives?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI have no doubt that I shall meet representatives of everybody.
§ Mr. CHORLTONWill the right hon. Gentleman pay particular attention to Japanese competition?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI can assure my hon. Friend that I do not need to visit East Africa in order to do that. It is before me all the time.