HC Deb 02 December 1953 vol 521 c1153
43. Mr. J. Johnson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what policy Her Majesty's Government has for closer association with the United Kingdom for those Colonial Dependencies which may never achieve a viable independence and which are known as grant-aided territories.

Mr. Lyttelton

These territories all have their own characteristics and problems, and no single device would suit them all. Consequently there can be no general policy. New forms of association and devolution will no doubt be worked out as time goes on.

Mr. Johnson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are many parts of the Commonwealth and Empire with large coloured populations now attaining political consciousness, for example, like Gambia, and can he say whether he is admitting members to this Chamber or members on their behalf to the other place, or is he perhaps thinking of establishing something on the lines of the Isle of Man?

Mr. Lyttelton

I hardly think that such a subject can be usefully discussed by Question and answer. These problems differ in almost every one of these Territories. The hon. Gentleman will have to take Parliamentary opportunity to raise the matter on another occasion.