28. Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has had under recent consideration proposals for the amalgamation of or alteration of boundaries as between Northern and Southern Rhodesia; whether he proposes to discuss the matter with representatives of the Governments of the Colonies now in London; and what policy His Majesty's Government intend to pursue in this matter?
§ Mr. Ormsby-GoreNo decisions have been taken as to any changes in existing policy, but the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs and I have had an opportunity of hearing the views of the 1002 Prime Minister of Southern Rhodesia and the unofficial representatives of Northern Rhodesia at the Coronation as to the question of closer association between the two territories.
Mr. Creech JonesCan the right hon. Gentleman say what reply has been given by the Government on the matter?
§ Mr. Ormsby-GoreWe only received these representations from the Government of Southern Rhodesia last week. His Majesty's Government will consider them in due course.
§ Colonel WedgwoodMay we be assured that the Governments of Northern and Southern Rhodesia will not be amalgamated before this House is able to discuss it?
§ Mr. Ormsby-GoreThat is a far-reaching question. Representations have been made. I should imagine that no far-reaching change could take place without full inquiry.