HC Deb 15 April 1953 vol 514 cc198-9
44. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the full agenda for the West Indian Federation Conference; and which Governments have sent to it representatives and observers, respectively.

Mr. Lyttelton

The discussions are based on the report of the Standing Closer Association Committee (Colonial No. 255). Representatives of the Governments of Jamaica, Trinidad, the Leeward Islands, the Windward Islands and Barbados are taking part in the Conference. British Guiana and British Honduras have sent observers.

Mr. Hughes

While wishing success to the labours of this Conference, is the Minister in a position to say what degree of support the idea of federation is getting at this Conference which has now been sitting for some days? Is he in a position to make an interim statement?

Mr. Lyttelton

I shall not make an interim statement, and I am sure the hon. and learned Gentleman would not expect me to disclose the course of negotiations while they are still taking place.

Mr. Hamilton

In view of the fact that British Guiana and British Honduras are not at the moment in favour of federation, will the right hon. Gentleman give an undertaking that it will not be enforced?

Mr. Lyttelton

There is no question of enforcement. This is a conference among the principal West Indian Colonies to decide whether they wish to federate.

Mr. Royle

Does the right hon. Gentleman hold the opinion that there is a chance that the observers there from British Guiana and British Honduras may become representatives before the Conference concludes?

Mr. Lyttelton

I do not think the hon. Gentleman should ask me to assume the mantle of a prophet.