§ 28. Mr. T. Reidasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what further progress he can report in respect of the proposed conference of Nigerian leaders in London.
§ 46. Mr. Fenner Brockwayasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a statement regarding the date, composition and agenda of the forthcoming conference in London to consider the Nigerian Constitution.
Mr. LyrteltonI have at present nothing to add to the information I gave in reply to Questions on 24th June; but 386 I will make a further statement as soon as there is definite progress to report.
§ Mr. LytteltonI should not like to be too optimistic, but it looks hopeful. There are one or two matters which I regard as of great importance which we must clear up before I can give a definite answer.
§ Mr. BrockwayWithout wishing to embarrass the right hon. Gentleman—[HON. MEMBERS: "Why not?"]—because I want the discussions to take place—may I ask him whether discussions are taking place with the leaders of the parties in Nigeria, and when he thinks those discussions are likely to come to a conclusion?
§ Mr. LytteltonI can certainly answer the first part of the hon. Gentleman's question by saying, "Yes, Sir; they are taking place." In the second part of his question, the hon. Gentleman asked me once again to assume the role of prophet, which I feel in my present office I cannot do.