HC Deb 15 April 1958 vol 586 c13
11. Mr. J. Johnson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a statement upon the discussions that have taken place between the Governor of Nyasaland and various groups in that Protectorate regarding future constitutional advance; and what organisations have been consulted.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

The Governor of Nyasaland has had preliminary discussions with representatives of the Nyasaland African Congress, the Asian community, the Euro-African and Coloured Community Welfare Associations and the African Progressive Association. The representatives of the European community have not yet submitted any proposals to the Governor. When he has received their proposals he will be able to consider the question of further discussions. I cannot say anything further at this stage.

Mr. Johnson

Is the Colonial Secretary aware that the last settlement, whereby he gave six seats to Europeans and five to Africans in a society of over 2 million Africans and some 5,000 Europeans, caused intense dissatisfaction in the Protectorate, and will he see next time that he has a much more liberal constitution, particularly in view of the fact that a delegation will come to the 1960 Conference on behalf of that Protectorate?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I think the hon. Gentleman knows that when the present constitution was introduced it was assumed that it would last until 1960 unless there was agreement to alternative proposals, but, as I have said, the Governor will be further considering this matter.

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