HC Deb 01 July 1920 vol 131 cc645-6
91. Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies what deputations have been received regarding the proposed scheme of Constitutional Reform in Ceylon; whether any assurances have been given to such deputations; and whether any opportunity will be given to the house to discuss the question of Constitutional Reform in Ceylon before the Colonial Office come to a final decision on the question?

Lieut.-Colonel AMERY

The Secretary of State has recently received deputations from the Mandyan Association, the Ceylon National Congress and Ceylon Reform League, and the European Association of Ceylon, on the question of Constitutional Reform. While he has assured these deputations that their views will receive the fullest consideration, he has not yet been able to give them any indication of his decision in the matter. He is at present engaged in considering all proposals placed before him, and I hope shortly to be in a position to inform the House of the general lines of the policy which he proposes to adopt.

Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTT

Will it be before the Autumn Session, or afterwards?

Lieut.-Colonel AMERY

I hope it may be possible before the close of this Session.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Will there be an opportunity of discussing the question in this House—not merely a statement and no discussion?

Lieut.-Colonel AMERY

I have not complete control of that, but I think my hon. and gallant Friend will probably find an opportunity.

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Will not a Bill be necessary?

Lieut.-Colonel AMERY

No, Sir; it is not the custom for changes in the Constitution of Crown Colonies to come up as Bills.

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