WINDWARD AND LEEWARD ISLANDS (CONSTITUTIONS)

HC Deb 02 June 1943 vol 390 cc187-8

29. Mr. Riley

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether any steps are being taken at present to extend self-government in the Windward and Leeward Islands of the West Indies; and whether he is aware of the beneficial effects of complete self-government before the war in the adjacent French islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe?

Colonel Stanley

The Constitutions of these Colonies are already broadly in accordance with the recommendations of the Royal Commission, and no further extensions are at present contemplated. The second part of the Question is a matter of opinion.

Mr. Riley

Is not the Minister aware that they have full government in the French Islands side by side with the limited government in ours?

Colonel Stanley

Yes, Sir, and I am aware of other conditions which differ between the Islands.

Sir Alfred Beit

Would it not be correct to say that the effects in the French Islands have not been so beneficial since the war?

Colonel Stanley

For the last three or four years, owing to the action of these French Islands, we have had no chance of finding out.