HC Deb 23 June 1943 vol 390 cc1152-3
40. Mr. Mander

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether be will now state the views of the Government with regard to Lord Hailey's proposals for Regional International Advisory Councils for Colonial territories in different parts of the world?

The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Colonel Oliver Stanley)

I have nothing to add at present to the reply which I gave to a Question on this subject by my hon. Friend on 24th March last.

Mr. Mander

Can my right hon. and gallant Friend say whether this admirable proposal is under discussion at the present time with the United Nations?

Colonel Stanley

This was a purely unofficial proposal by one person. There have been many others of a similar character, and the Government are considering the whole broad aspect of the thing.

Mr. Mander

Can my right hon. and gallant Friend say when he hopes to be able to make a statement on this important subject?

Colonel Stanley

No, Sir, I am afraid I cannot.

Major Petherick

Can my right hon. and gallant Friend assure the House, that though there should be the closest collaboration in Colonial affairs between the various Powers concerned, it is very advisable that no action shall be taken which will mitigate in any way the sovereignty of Britain over her own Colonies?

Colonel Stanley

Both the Prime Minister and I have already answered Questions specifically on that point.

Mr. Mander

Is it not quite clear that this is not part of the scheme, though?

Mr. Riley

If and when these councils meet, will the right hon. and gallant Gentleman bear in mind the desirability of including on such councils a proportion of native representatives who are qualified, wherever possible?

Colonel Stanley

That is another matter.