SIR GILBERT PARKERI beg to ask the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether this Government will take into consideration the desirability of summoning a conference representative of all portions of the Empire to discuss the question of the migration of coloured races within the Empire, their admission to or exclusion from the self-governing Dominions and the Crown Colonies, and their status if admitted, and also the possibility of establishing communities of our coloured fellow subjects in portions of the Empire where no objection would be taken to their settlement.
§ COLONEL SEELYThe whole question is receiving the fullest attention from the Secretary of State, but as at present advised he does not think that any advantage would result from such a conference as is suggested in the Question.
SIR GILBERT PARKERWas the decision arrived at on the ground that the time was inopportune or because the Government rejected the proposal?
§ COLONEL SEELYThere were many reasons; I cannot give the precise one.
§ EARL WINTERTON (Sussex, Horsham)Before coming to a decision, did the Government consult the Colonial Premiers?
§ COLONEL SEELYNo, Sir; the self-governing Dominions have made no representations to us in the matter. If the noble Lord will refer to the letter he will see the conference proposed was on a much wider basis.
§ EARL WINTERTONHave any representations been made to them on the subject?
§ COLONEL SEELYNo suggestions came from them.