HC Deb 18 June 1930 vol 240 cc384-5
29. Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can give any further information regarding the agenda, composition, and duration of the forthcoming Colonial Office Conference?

Dr. SHIELS

With the right hon. Member's permission, I will circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT the agenda which has now been drawn up, and the list of representatives at the conference, together with a list of observers which other Governments have attached. The conference will meet on 23rd June, and it is anticipated that it will hold its final meeting on 15th July.

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

Will arrangements for publicity of the Secretary of State's opening speech and similar communications be made as were made at the last Colonial Conference?

Dr. SHIELS

I think that the arrangements are very similar.

Mr. BROCKWAY

Does the agenda include the consideration of the new situation arising from legislation prohibiting forced labour and child labour on Government-aided schemes?

Dr. SHIELS

Yes.

Miss RATHBONE

Does the agenda also include consideration of measures for improving the extremely low status and unsatisfactory conditions of native women in many of the Colonies?

Dr. SHIELS

Yes. I think that all these items will be found to come under some of the headings in the agenda which I am circulating.

Following is copy of the Agenda; and list of representatives and observers: