HC Deb 24 May 1950 vol 475 cc2048-9
27. Mr. Geoffrey Cooper

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies in view of the recent discussions over constitutional reform that have taken place with the Governor of Fiji, what steps it is proposed to take in order to give more scope for the expression of democratic opinion and the elimination of the present dissatisfaction caused by the system of nominations on the unofficial side of the council.

30. Mr. William Teeling

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies in view of the official assertion of the Governor of Fiji that his Department had no evidence that changes are desired in the Constitution of Fiji, what steps have been taken to find out what public opinion in Fiji is on this subject; and what attention has been paid to the views expressed during the November session of the Council, by honourable unofficial Members of the Council.

Mr. Dugdale

Every opportunity was given to the unofficial Members of the Legislative Council to make known their views in the three-day debate last December on the Report of the Fiji Constitution Revision Committee. The voting showed that a majority of unofficial Members was opposed to substantial changes in the Constitution being made, and I see no reason to take any action contrary to their declared opinion.

Mr. Cooper

Can my hon. Friend say how the democratic opinions of the people of Fiji can ever be represented on the Legislative Council under the present system? Will he give further consideration to the whole question of revision so as to enable democratic opinion to be expressed?

Mr. Dugdale

No, Sir. I am having regard to the views expressed by the unofficial Members of the Council, and I think that is a reasonable thing to do.

Mr. Teeling

Is the hon. Gentleman not aware of the very strong feeling among the people of Fiji on this matter at present? Will he not strive to find out what that public opinion is, since it does not necessarily mean going to the unofficial Members?

Mr. Dugdale

Public opinion is expressed in the Legislative Council, which has expressed the views which I have stated.

Mr. Teeling

Are they not all nominated Members?

Mr. Cooper

If I send my right hon. Friend extensive memoranda on the subject, will he reconsider the matter?

Mr. Dugdale

Certainly, Sir.