HC Deb 15 July 1953 vol 517 cc2047-8
20. Mr. Fenner Brockway

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will take the initiative in establishing an inter-racial commission, including representatives of India and Pakistan, to make recommendations regarding the steps necessary in Kenya to establish conditions of racial co-operation and peace.

Mr. Lyttelton

No, Sir. The House is aware that as soon as conditions permit it is intended to convene a conference of political leaders and representatives of all races in Kenya. This will include representatives of the Asian community resident in Kenya on whose behalf it is neither proper nor necessary that India or Pakistan should participate.

Mr. Brockway

As the Indian and Pakistani population in Kenya is three times as great as the European population, would not it be desirable that the co-operation of India and Pakistan should be secured in this matter?

Mr. Lyttelton

No, Sir. This matter raises very wide questions? The United Kingdom Government as such are not represented, nor would it be proper for India or Pakistan to take part in the discussions.