HC Deb 05 June 1939 vol 348 cc26-7
31. Mr. Creech Jones

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what changes are being made in the executive and legislative councils of Tanganyika?

Mr. M. MacDonald

Under the existing arrangements the Executive Council in Tanganyika consists (in addition to the Governor) of six ex officio members, and there is provision also for the appointment of other persons holding office in the public service as official members. I have recently approved a recommendation by the Governor that provision should be made for the inclusion in the Executive Council of unofficial members. In future the composition of the Council (exclusive of the Governor) will be three ex officio members and such other official and unofficial members as may from time to time be appointed. I am not aware that any changes are contemplated in the constitution of the Legislative Council.

Mr. Creech Jones

Will those changes affect the representation of native interests?

Mr. MacDonald

I do not think they will affect it at all, but I have just received a despatch from the Governor on the whole question, giving detailed proposals, and I would not like to add anything to that general statement until I have had a chance to study the details.

Mr. Paling

Will direct representation of natives be allowed, by a native, for example?

Mr. MacDonald

Again, I would not like to make any further statement until I have had an opportunity of considering detailed proposals.