HC Deb 22 November 1939 vol 353 cc1207-8
35. Mr. Riley

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the Governor of Jamaica has consulted him on the question of the postponement of elections to the Jamaica Legislative Assembly, which are due in January, 1940; and what decision, if any, has been reached?

Mr. McDonald

Yes, Sir; I have received from the Governor of Jamaica a copy of a resolution passed unanimously by the Legislative Council of Jamaica requesting that I should advise His Majesty that an Order-in-Council should be made postponing the general election for the Legislative Council due in January, 1940. I propose to submit to His Majesty in Council the draft of an Order for this purpose.

Mr. Riley

Is the postponement for the duration of the war or for a specified period?

Mr. MacDonald

That matter is under consideration, but for the present it is not for a specified period.

Mr. Creech Jones

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman not to confirm a fire-year period, in view of the possible recommendations of the Royal Commission's report?

Mr. MacDonald

Certainly, I would not intend the postponement to be for any specified period, five years or otherwise at present.