§ 42 and 43. Mr. Stonehouseasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies (1) what efforts are being made by the Northern Rhodesian Government, and by what methods, to ascertain the opinion of the African population towards the ending of the protectorate status of the territory;
§ (2) What efforts are being made to ascertain the attitude of British protected persons in Nyasaland towards the continuation or otherwise of British responsibilities towards the Protectorate.
§ The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Alan Lennox-Boyd)As there is no intention to end the protected status either of Northern Rhodesia or of Nyasaland unless their respective peoples so desire, the question does not arise.
§ Mr. StonehouseDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise the great importance of this question to the 5 million British-protected persons in Northern Rhodesia and Nyasaland? How does he intend to honour the pledge in the Preamble to the Federal Constitution? Does he undertake to consult all the people concerned or has he in mind consulting only a few representatives?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI answered a Question on that point about a fortnight ago.