HC Deb 04 February 1948 vol 446 cc1790-1
42 and 43. Mr. Haydn Davies

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies (1) whether he is in a position to announce the Government's Constitutional proposals for Cyprus; and

(2) whether the people of Cyprus are to have a voice in framing the new Constitution for the island; or if His Majesty's Government will insist upon the acceptance in full of its own proposals.

Mr. Creech Jones

I am not yet ready to announce the Constitutional proposals of His Majesty's Government. As I indicated in reply to my hon. Friend's Question on 28th January, these proposals will in due course be placed before the Consultative Assembly in Cyprus, and it is, of course, the intention that the Consultative Assembly should discuss the proposals and have a full opportunity of putting forward their views. In advance of announcement of the proposals and their discussion in Cyprus it would be undesirable for me to speculate on what the final outcome may be

Mr. Davies

Would my right hon. Friend say when he believes that he will be in a position to send this proposal, in view of the fact that the question of the Constitution has been dragging on for years without any satisfactory solution, and bearing in mind that it would be a help if he could give some indication?

Mr. Creech Jones

I could not give any date, but the matter is receiving very active attention.

Mr. Edward Evans

Has my right hon. Friend been able to consult with representative bodies in Cyprus?

Mr. Creech Jones

The Governor has been in touch with all representative organisations in the creation of the Consultative Assembly. The matter of the Constitution has already been discussed by that Assembly.

Mr. T. Reid

Have the Greek Government made any representations on this subject?

Mr. Creech Jones

No, Sir.

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