HC Deb 14 April 1943 vol 388 cc1206-7
42. Mr. Creech Jones

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether consideration is being given to a new Constitution for Mauritius; and whether, meantime, a more representative Executive Council can be set up, to include representatives of the unfranchised peoples and classes, including working people?

Colonel Stanley

I am informing myself as fully as possible about the political situation in Mauritius, but in present conditions there is nothing I can add to the reply given to the hon. Member's Question on this subject on 29th April last year.

Mr. Creech Jones

In view of the long delay in bringing in constitutional reform in Mauritius and the strong local feeling, and the social and economic difficulties, will the right hon. and gallant Gentleman consider, as an interim arrangement during the war, a wider representation, particularly of workers, on the Executive Council of the Colony?

Colonel Stanley

As I said in my answer, I am looking into the matter; but the hon. Gentleman must realise that Mauritius is still very close to the front line.