§ 20. Mr. Brockwayasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies when it is now proposed to re-establish and extend democratic institutions in Malta.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI cannot add anything to my reply to the hon. Member for Bristol, Central (Mr. Awbery) on 23rd June.
§ Mr. BrockwayMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether, as it had been indicated that when there was quietude in the island the matter of a new and more liberal constitution would be considered, and as there have been no disturbances for six months, is it not time now that negotiations were resumed with the parties in Malta for a new and liberal constitution?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI do not think the time is yet opportune for that, though I gladly pay tribute to the fact that the situation in Malta at the present time is calm and wise.
§ Mr. AwberyIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the present method of governing the island has created a certain amount of bitterness—it may be underground bitterness, but it is still there? Could he say what steps have been taken to ascertain the wishes of 662 the people about the future of democratic government in the island?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI do not think that would be a fair description of the attitude of the majority of the people.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman to reconsider the matter, as this is one of the territories upon which we found a real bipartisan approach to the problem, though, unfortunately, it broke down? In view of the fact that this is the oldest Colony and that it has a deep association with this country, will he undertake to review the matter, so that Malta can be brought back into the main stream of our colonial development?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydIf the right hon. Gentleman will read the speech of the new Governor on taking office, he will see in that speech an attitude of forward-looking hope, which is also the view of Her Majesty's Government.