2. Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether, recently, he has had conversations with the Prime Minister of Southern Rhodesia on the subject of the relations of the Rhodesias; whether any political or constitutional changes in respect to Southern Rhodesia are being discussed; and whether His Majesty's Government have yet formulated a policy in respect to Southern Rhodesia, so far as it is concerned in the report of the Royal Commission?
§ Sir T. InskipThe Secretary of State for the Colonies and I have had conversations with the Prime Minister of Southern Rhodesia on the subject of the recommendations of the report of the Rhodesia-Nyasaland Royal Commission concerning the relations of Northern and Southern Rhodesia. These discussions are still in progress, and His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom are, therefore, not yet in a position to make a statement as to their outcome.
Mr. Creech JonesMay I take it that the Government at the present moment are not committed to the proposal for amalgamation between the Northern and the Southern Rhodesias, and will there be consultation with the respective political 2125 parties in this House before a final line is taken on the matter?
§ Sir T. InskipWith regard to the last part of the question, I gave an assurance to that effect some time ago to the hon. Member; and with regard to the last part of the question, no decision has been reached. The discussion, as I said, is still in progress.
§ Mr. SorensenCan the right hon. Gentleman assure the House that the interests of the natives will receive primary consideration?
§ Sir T. InskipI think it is better not to add to or embroider statements that have been made. The interests of the natives will be kept prominently in the very front of our considerations.