HC Deb 23 April 1953 vol 514 c1397
45. Mr. J. Johnson

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider appointing a Secretary of State for Colonial and Dominion Affairs in Africa.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Winston Churchill)

I have nothing to add to the reply on this subject which I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Croydon, North (Mr. F. Harris) on 12th May last year.

Mr. Johnson

Would the Prime Minister think again about this matter? Is he fully aware of the ever growing complexity of affairs, including the unusual system of dyarchy which is to come in Central Africa? Is there not now, of all times, a powerful case for the appointment of a Minister who could spend some months each year touring Africa, so that we are less dependent upon cables and other means of sending information?

The Prime Minister

I think we should always be ready to adapt our thought to changing circumstances of the world, but I do not feel that at this moment we need embark upon a multiplication of offices under the Crown.

Mr. Shinwell

So that the House may be informed, may I inquire whether the right hon. Gentleman is in a better temper than I understood he was early this morning?

The Prime Minister

Because I show robust energy, it does not follow that I have a sensitive or injured disposition.