40. Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Undersecretary of State for the Colonies what proposals have recently been made for altering the Legislative Council of British Guiana?
§ Mr. Harold MacmillanFollowing the recommendations of the West India Royal Commission, it is proposed that the Legislative Council should be re-constituted by the withdrawal of all official members, except the Colonial Secretary, Attorney-General and Treasurer, and by an increase in the number of nominated unofficial members from five to seven, in order to permit of nominations covering a wider field than at present. This will give the elected members who number fourteen a decisive majority on the Council. A motion was passed by the Legislative Council on 30th January, asking for re-constitution of the Legislature on these lines, and steps for the necessary amendment of the instruments are being taken. The question of the franchise has been referred to a Franchise Commission.