§ 39. Mr. Swinglerasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he has considered the resolution passed by the Synod of the Methodist Church District !which includes North Staffordshire, a copy of which has been submitted to him, concerning the paramount importance of consulting true representatives of the African people about the future of the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. J. AmeryI assume that the hon. Member is referring to the resolution of which he sent a copy to my right hon. Friend on 25th May while he was on a visit to West Africa.
The Constitution of the Federation itself lays down in Article 99 that the five delegations to the review conference shall be chosen by the respective Governments.
§ Mr. SwinglerWill the Under-Secretary study this matter? Is he aware that this is an expression of religious opinion in this country which is comparable to that which has been expressed in Scotland, namely, that British policy should be directed in Central Africa to establishing the majority rule of the people, irrespective of colour, and that nothing should be done by any Government here except with the open consent of the true representatives of the African people?
§ Mr. AmeryThe hon. Member can be assured that the most careful thought will be given to proper representations of all points of view made to the two different Governments concerned.