§ Mr. Attlee(by Private Notice) asked the Prime Minister whether he is now in a position to make a statement regarding the agenda for the forthcoming Imperial Conference.
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir. The Imperial Conference, which will open on izith May, will afford an opportunity for discussion of matters of common interest to the Members of the British Commonwealth under the following heads:
As regards foreign affairs and Defence, the agenda will include the examination 1345 of the general situation, together with any relevant questions of a less general character which may require consideration.
- (1) Foreign affairs and Defence;
- (2) Constitutional questions;
- (3) Trade, shipping and air communications and allied questions.
As regards Constitutional questions, particular subjects proposed for consideration are certain matters relating to nationality, treaty procedure, the international status of Members of the British Commonwealth, and channels of communication between them.
As regards trade, shipping and air communications and allied questions, the following will be the main headings:
It has been generally agreed by His Majesty's Governments that any questions arising out of the Ottawa Agreements can best be dealt with as occasion offers in separate discussions between the individual Governments concerned and apart from the Imperial Conference.
- (1) General review of the progress of Empire trade and questions arising therefrom;
- (2) Review of the work of the Imperial Economic Committee and other intra-Imperial organisations in the economic sphere;
- (3) General questions arising in connection with shipping policy including a review of the work of the Imperial Shipping Committee;
- (4) Civil air communications.
It is hoped that there will also be an opportunity during the course of the Imperial Conference for exchanges of views on the subject of migration within the Empire.
§ Mr. AttleeMay I ask the Prime Minister when he will be able to submit the names of the United Kingdom Delegation?
§ The Prime MinisterI hope before the House rises for the Easter Recess.
§ Mr. MarkhamAre we to understand from the answer just given that the subject of migration within the Empire will be treated as an optional subject pending further consultation with the Dominions?