HC Deb 08 March 1939 vol 344 c2146
37. Mr. T. Williams

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will publish the Letters Patent embodying the new constitution for Malta; and whether he will make a statement as to the date on which, and the conditions under which, the constitution will come into operation?

Mr. M. MacDonald

The Letters Patent embodying the new constitution for Malta were published in Malta on 25th February, and copies have been placed in the Library of the House. It is anticipated that the constitution will be brought into operation as soon as elections can be held. I am not in a position to say when the elections will take place, but I am advised that the necessary preparations, which will involve legislation in Malta and the compilation of a new voters' register, will occupy several months.