§ 47. Major Lyonsasked the Prime Minister whether he is satisfied that at the forthcoming meetings of the Dominion Prime Ministers the Colonies will be adequately represented in all matters which may be raised affecting their present and future political status and economic well-being; who these representatives will be; and whether he will ensure that every care is taken to see that no decisions are implemented without prior submission to the appropriate colonial legislative assemblies for their consideration.
§ The Prime MinisterIt is intended that the Secretary of State for the Colonies should be present when any question which may affect the Colonial Empire comes up for discussion, and also at other times. As regards the last part of the Question, I can assure my hon. and gallant Friend that while the interests of the Colonial Empire will be vigilantly watched I could not submit to such a sweeping inhibition as he proposes.
§ Major LyonsAre we to understand that no representatives of the Colonies will be present in England at these meetings?
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir, Sir Godfrey Huggins is at present representing Southern Rhodesia. That is not incompatible with representation of the Colonies but otherwise the Colonies are represented by the Secretary of State.
§ Sir Percy HarrisCan my right hon. Friend say whether a representative of the Indian Empire will attend this conference?
§ The Prime MinisterNot only the Secretary of State but Sir Firoz Khan 768 Noon and the Maharajah of Kashmir. They have both already attended our regular meetings.
§ Mr. GallacherWill there be a representative of the Congress?