§ 14. Mr. Wallasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a statement on the progress of the Constitutional Conference on Kenya.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodThe main groups concerned have stated their position in relation to proposals which I have circulated to the Conference. Some measure of agreement was revealed, and I welcome this. The Conference has now gone into committee to consider safeguards and other outstanding matters. I hope to be able to make a full statement to the House in a few days.
§ Mr. WallDoes not my hon. Friend agree that for a real solution to these very difficult problems it is necessary for the two major parties to agree to work the new constitution at least for a period of years and for the African elected members to agree to take part in the Government?
§ Mr. MacleodI have always sought a wide measure of agreement, and this is one of the reasons why the Conference has gone on so long. I think that it has been well worth the search. I am sure that we must try to seek agreement in Kenya. I am also sure that it would help if the African elected members were able to take part in the Government, but, of course, that is a matter for them.