HC Deb 20 July 1938 vol 338 cc2177-8
23. Mr. Lunn

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies with regard to the proposed Royal Commission on the West Indies, whether he can yet state the personnel of the commission and also the terms of reference; and whether, in particular, constitutional and franchise questions will be included?

41. Mr. Rostron Duckworth

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is now in a position to state the names and terms of reference of the Royal Commission to investigate economic conditions in the West Indian Colonies?

The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Malcolm MacDonald)

I am not yet in a position to make a statement on this matter, but I hope to be able to make an announcement in the course of next week.

Mr. Lunn

Can the right hon. Gentleman say on what date he will be able to make an announcement?

Mr. MacDonald

I have expressed the hope that I shall be able to make it next week, but I could not say what date precisely. Perhaps it will be on Wednesday or Thursday.

Mr. Riley

Will the question of the franchise be included in the terms of reference?

Mr. MacDonald

I think the hon. Member had better await a comprehensive statement on the matter.

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