§ 27. Mr. R. Edwardsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what submissions he has received from representatives of the Creole community of Freetown concerning proposed constitutional changes in Sierra Leone; and what was the nature of his reply.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodThe submission I have received came from two members of the Settlers' Descendants Union. They sought complete separation of the Colony from the Protectorate and a separate form of Government for the Colony. I have asked the Governor to tell the two petitioners that I have taken note of their views.
§ Mr. EdwardsIs the Minister aware that this very small minority of Creoles in Freetown have exceptional facilities for B.B.C. television in this country and in their broadcasts have stated that the people in the Protectorate are pagans and cannibals? Is he aware that I hope he will agree that this kind of malicious and untruthful propaganda will in no way influence the discussions at the Conference?
§ Mr. MacleodI agree with the hon. Gentleman. I do not think these representations are at all important, and they will not influence the Conference which is to take place.