HC Deb 16 June 1954 vol 528 cc1948-9
34. Mr. J. Johnson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of the reconstitution of the Tanganyika Legislative Council, he will give an assurance that within the life of the present Council, the Government of Tanganyika will consider elections on a common roll, with reserved seats for the three seats in Dar-es-Salaam.

Mr. Lyttelton

No, Sir. The system of representation by geographical areas will not be introduced until the Legislative Council is reconstituted next year; and it is the intention of the Tanganyika Government that the new Council should become firmly established before the elective principle is introduced. This policy has been given unanimous approval by the present Council and reflects responsible opinion generally throughout the territory.

Mr. Johnson

Will the Minister, despite the Mackenzie Report, consider an experiment on these lines? The Asians want this, the African Association has petitioned the Governor about this, and will he not have second thoughts—and what I and many other people believe would be wiser thoughts—on this matter?

Mr. Lyttelton

I think that the course which we are pursuing has the support of most moderate and informed opinion in Tanganyika.