HC Deb 26 February 1935 vol 298 cc953-4
21. Major MILNER

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether there is any intention to alter the constitution of Southern Rhodesia or to abandon the ultimate responsibility of His Majesty's Government for native policy there?

The SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Mr. J. H. Thomas)

As regards the first part of the question, certain proposed amendments of the Southern Rhodesia Constitution relating to the powers of the High Commissioner are under consideration. The answer to the second part is in the negative.

Major MILNER

May we take it that any proposals will be submitted to the House before they are carried into effect?

Mr. THOMAS

Certainly; there will be an opportunity for the House to discuss them.

Major MILNER

Before they are carried into effect?

Mr. THOMAS

Yes.

Major MILNER

I understand that Amendments to the Constitution are under consideration; will those Amendments be submitted to this House before they are carried into effect?

Mr. THOMAS

Amendments to the Constitution are not amendments affecting the native question, as I have already indicated, but are merely amendments affecting the relationship of the High Commissioner to the Secretary of State.

Major MILNER

And there is nothing under consideration affecting the differential treatment of natives?

Mr. THOMAS

Nothing whatever.