59. Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether the Commissioners in Newfoundland take important decisions as individuals or whether the principle of collective reponsibility operates in all matters of general policy in the administration of that Dominion; what steps are taken by the Commissioners to consult local opinion; and if he will now consider whether the time has arrived for a return to the principle of representative government in Newfoundland?
Mr. M. MacDonaldAs regards the first part of the question, the principle of collective responsibility applies and is fully recognised. As regards the second part, it is the aim of the Commissioners to make use of every opportunity for keeping themselves informed of local opinion. Close touch is maintained, for example, with labour, trade and charitable organisations; conferences are held on particular subjects as occasion requires; and in matters of legislation the practice has been adopted of publishing the text of proposed Bills and inviting comments and suggestions. In addition, the Commissioners, in their tours through the Island, are brought into personal contact with all classes of the community. As regards the last part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave on 16th March to the hon. Member for Rothwell (Mr. Lunn), in the course of which I explained that it would be premature to consider any change at present.
Mr. Creech JonesIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that important decisions in regard to general policy are taken by individual commissioners without reference to the general body of Commissioners, and is he also aware of the feeling in the island at their inability to express themselves in the affairs of government?
Mr. MacDonaldIn regard to the first part of the question, I am not aware of the state of affairs which the hon. Member has described, and which is in direct contradiction to what I have said in answer to his question. In regard to the second part, I am, of course, aware of the trend of opinion in the island. There is undoubtedly disappointment that recovery is so slow, but the conditions in the island were so grave when the Commissioners took over that rapid recovery was not to be expected and, as I have indicated, the Commissioners are endeavouring in every way possible to keep in touch with local opinion in the work they are doing.
Mr. Creech JonesWill the right hon. Gentleman take action if I bring to his notice instances where individual decisions have been taken without reference to the full body of the Commission?
§ Mr. LunnCan the right hon. Gentleman say when we shall have a report on the position of the island to-day?
Mr. MacDonaldA report was published fairly recently, and another report is not due until the close of the current year.