HC Deb 04 February 1941 vol 368 cc801-3
49. Mr. Stokes

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will give an assurance that before any Order in Council is made altering the Constitution of Jamaica opportunity will be given for discussion in this House?

The Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. George Hall)

As was stated in reply to a Question by the hon. Member for Dewsbury (Mr. Riley) on 29th January, the question whether the constitution of Jamaica is to be amended is among those questions which are being discussed with the Governor of the Colony who is now in this country; and I should prefer not to make any further statement pending the outcome of those discussions.

Mr. Stokes

Is my hon. Friend aware of the great anxiety felt by residents in the Island on this subject, and will he give an assurance that neither the sale nor the leasing of the whole Island to a foreign Power is contemplated?

Mr. Hall

That is another question, but I can asure my hon. Friend in regard to the question of constitution that, if changes are agreed upon then, I think, the Government will consider the question of the matter being considered by this House.

Captain Cunningham-Reid

Would the hon. Member give an assurance that there will be no leasing or sale of our possessions in the future without first consulting this House?

Mr. Hall

No, Sir.

Sir A. Southby

Would the Under-Secretary convey to the Prime Minister the desirability of a statement at an early date on the whole subject of leasing and the constitution of these bases?

Mr. Hall

That can be done. The House will remember that a conference is sitting at the present, and I have no doubt that at its conclusion a statement will be made.

Sir A. Southby

Is the Under-Secretary aware that this House is desirous of knowing exactly what is being done, and what will be done in the future, before a final decision is taken?

Mr. Thurtle

Is my hon. Friend aware that the great bulk of Members of this House are very happy with the arrangement with America in regard to this matter?

Mr. Stokes

Are we to understand that the Cabinet feel at liberty to dispose of British possessions without consulting this House?