38. Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a statement regarding constitutional matters in the Aden Colony.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydA statement of proposals for constitutional development was published in Aden on 11th November and I am having copies placed in the Library. These proposals, if adopted, will give the people of Aden a real measure of participation in the internal government of the Colony. The main features are the introduction of an elected majority in Legislative Council and of a membership system under which five of the unofficial members—including at least three of the elected members—will be placed in charge of certain Departments of Government. Subject to any minor modifications which the Governor may recommend in the light of local public reaction, constitutional instruments will be prepared to enable members to be elected to the proposed new Legislative Council at the end of 1958.
Mr. Creech JonesWhile welcoming these constitutional developments, I 983 should be glad to know from the Secretary of State whether there are any proposals under discussion as yet for an extension of constitutional change into the Protectorates of the hinterland which might conceivably, in some way, be linked with the developments going on in Aden itself?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydNo, Sir, not at the present time.