§ 30. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the present position in respect of West Indian Federation.
§ Mr. LytteltonThe Legislatures, apart from Barbados, which has still to debate the subject, British Guiana, British Honduras and the Virgin Islands, have accepted federation in principle. I have suggested that the next step should be a conference in London; a copy of my despatch setting out detailed plans for this conference was placed in the Library on 27th February. The preliminary work suggested in paragraph 4 of that despatch has not yet been completed, and I do not think that the conference can usefully be held until this has been done.
§ Mr. SorensenSupposing one of the areas of the Caribbean to which the right hon. Gentleman refers still refuses to join in, what will happen? Will they go on with the proposal?
§ Mr. LytteltonThat is a hypothetical question. I am very keen to hold the conference to see what general measure of agreement can be reached.