§ 37. Mr. Brockwayasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will initiate discussions with the Government of France regarding the integration of territories under French and British administrations in Africa where there are 820 racial and economic grounds for union or federation.
Commander NobleNo, Sir, my right hon. and learned Friend does not think this would be appropriate. Her Majesty's Government could only consider such an initiative in the light of a clear indication of the wishes of the people of the British territories concerned; no such basis exists at present.
§ Mr. BrockwayIn view of the fact that many of these frontiers are quite artificial and arbitrary, particularly as illustrated in Togoland and the Cameroons, where they have been divided, may I ask whether we will take the initiative in meeting African movements towards federation of these territories?
Commander NobleI have nothing to add to the Answer I have just given. The opinion of the people of these territories is, of course, a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies.