HC Deb 07 June 1944 vol 400 cc1339-40
32. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what are the Government's intentions regarding representation of Africans on the Uganda Legislative Council; and whether any plans are in view to speed this development.

Colonel Stanley

Buganda, the largest of the native administrations, has its own native ruler, native Parliament and administration. The remainder of the African administrations are on similar though less advanced lines. I hope that, when the time is appropriate, Africans will be represented in the Legislative Council, but I do not wish this to be introduced at the expense of the natural development of existing native assemblies.

Mr. Sorensen

While appreciating the reply, may I ask the right hon. and gallant Gentleman whether he can give any indication when Africans will be appointed to the Legislative Council, or does he feel that as yet they are not really able to fill such positions?

Colonel Stanley

It is not that so much, but my impression when out there was that, in the peculiar circumstances of Uganda, they are far more interested in the native Parliament than in the Legislative-Council.

Mr. Riley

Does not the right hon. and gallant Gentleman think it very desirable that they should be represented on the Legislative Council as well?

Colonel Stanley

I have answered that question.