§ 26. Mr. Lipsonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether it is now possible to say when legislation is likely to be introduced which would enable residence in certain British Protectorates, including the Nigerian Protectorate, to be counted as a qualification for naturalisation as British subjects?
§ The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Malcolm MacDonald)No, Sir. I regret that, in the present circumstances, it is not possible to say when legislation of this kind is likely to be introduced.
§ Mr. LipsonIs my right hon. Friend aware that it is some time since I first raised this matter, which is of considerable importance, particularly in view of the present state of the world, and will he consider approaching the matter with a little more energy?
§ Mr. MacDonaldThe matter was under consideration when my hon. Friend asked me questions about it earlier, but, naturally, the whole circumstances have changed since the declaration of war.
§ Mr. LipsonDo not the circumstances make it more necessary now that legislation should be introduced?