§ 23. Mr. J. Johnsonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will now make a statement upon the proposals for constitutional advance in Mauritius.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI have given very careful consideration to the proposals which have been submitted by the Governor for changes in the Constitution of Mauritius. I think it would be desirable for the Governor and the leading representatives of the principal schools of thought in the Colony to come to London for discussions on these proposals before any final decision is taken, but in present circumstances it is not yet possible to arrange a firm date for this visit.
§ Mr. JohnsonWhile hoping that the Minister will follow his excellent example in Nyasaland and invite the Governor of Mauritius here, might I ask him whether he will get a move on, as it is 12 months since Lord Munster went to the island; and if the right hon. Gentleman does not get on with the matter soon, perhaps we on this side of the House will be able to finish it for him?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI am aware of the advisability of getting a move on, but I am also aware of the constitutional propriety which ought to be followed by a Minister receiving a Governor from a Colony, when there is a great deal of controversy about its future, on the eve of a General Election.