Constitution (Hansard, 12 February 1959)

§ 20. Mr. Wall
asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will now make a statement about the future constitution of Nyasaland.

§ Mr. J. Amery
I have nothing to add to the reply given to the hon. Member for Rugby (Mr. J. Johnson) on 20th January.

§ Mr. Wall
Has it not already been stated, when the new constitution was announced, that it would not come into effect until May of next year? In view of that and the difficulties which arose over the constitution for Northern Rhodesia, will my hon. Friend consider deferring the new constitution until after the 1960 talks?

§ Mr. Amery
I am continually in touch with the Governor on this subject but there are not yet any firm proposals which I can make.

§ Mr. Bottomley
In view of the deteriorating political situation in Nyasaland, does not the hon. Gentleman think he ought to set up the constitution and make provisions so that the Africans will be truly ready to co-operate with the Government?

§ Mr. Amery
We are taking certain steps.