HC Deb 04 February 1948 vol 446 cc1798-9
29 and 30. Squadron-Leader Kinghorn

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies (1) what the present prospects are for a United States of Africa;

(2) if he will indicate what steps have already been taken for collaboration in colonial matters between the nations of the proposed Western European Union.

Mr. Creech Jones

In the past few years arrangements have been worked out for close co-operation in technical matters of common concern, not only with the other Western European Colonial Powers, but also with other countries with neighbouring responsibilities. In the Caribbean area this is secured by the Caribbean Commission. The South Pacific Commission, which should shortly be finally established, will provide similar machinery for the South Pacific region. For Africa we have, over the past two years, built up a system of close co-operation on technical matters with the interested peoples who include the French, Belgians and Portuguese. A programme of technical conferences was drawn up last spring, which will last until 1950. Several such conferences have already been held, either in Africa or in the metropolitan countries. No proposal for a United States of Africa has been advanced, nor do I detect any wish for such an arrangement among the inhabitants of Africa.

Dr. Segal

Would the right hon. Gentleman rate as any brighter the prospects for a United States of Europe?