§ 47. Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLEasked the Prime Minister whether it is proposed to allow the West Indian Colonies to be directly represented at the forthcoming Imperial Economic Conference?
§ Dr. SHIELSI have been asked to reply to this question. I have nothing at present to add to the answer which I gave on this subject to the right hon. Member for Stafford (Mr. Ormsby-Gore) on 20th March, which was that the question of the method of representation of the interests of the Colonies, Protectorates, and Mandated Territories was still under consideration.
§ Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLECannot the hon. Member give an answer to the direct question of whether this particular West Indian colony is or is not to be represented?
§ Dr. SHIELSNo, I cannot say that. The whole question is at present under consideration, and I could not give a reply.
Earl WINTERTONWill the hon. Gentleman represent to the Secretary of State for the Colonies the desirability of coming to a decision one way or another before the Estimates for his office are taken, so that it may be open to the House to make suggestions on this matter?
§ Dr. SHIELSYes, I will be very glad to convey that suggestion to my right hon. Friend.