§ 29. Mr. Dribergasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he has considered the fact that, under the present franchise system, only 7 per cent. of the total population of Bermuda have the right to vote, together with the Governor of Bermuda's recommendation that the people of Bermuda should be educated in good citizenship during the coming years; and what steps are now being taken to resolve this incongruity.
Mr. Creech JonesI would invite attention to paragraph 5 of my despatch, dated 20th March, 1947, to the Governor of Bermuda, a copy of which I have presented to Parliament (Cmd. 7093).
§ Mr. DribergMay I take it from that answer that my right hon. Friend is perturbed by the open approval of the present system contained in the Governor's memorandum printed in the White Paper, and has there been any promise of speedy action in response to his excellent despatch, also printed therein?
Mr. Creech JonesI tried to make it quite clear in my despatch in March that I earnestly hope that before long the Legislative Council, or the Select Committee established by the House of Assembly, will make recommendations which will lead to a widening of the franchise.