HC Deb 27 July 1949 vol 467 c2463
31. Mr. T. Reid

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he can report any progress in the policy of establishing a customs union, or federation of the West Indies.

The Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Rees-Williams)

The Customs Union Commission has been at work since January, and the Standing Closer Association Committee has held three meetings. I understand that these bodies hope to report in October.

Mr. Reid

Is there any chance of an official decision being reached on this matter when the Minister of State for Colonial Affairs, Lord Listowel, goes to the West Indies next November?

Mr. Rees-Williams

I have no doubt that this matter will be one of the things discussed at the meeting.