HC Deb 10 March 1960 vol 619 cc608-9
10. Mr. G. M. Thomson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what representations have been received by the Governor of Northern Rhodesia from the United National Independence Party regarding constitutional changes; and what reply has been made.

Mr. Iain Macleod

The Governor has forwarded to me a petition on constitutional matters which he received from the United National Independence Party on 22nd February. I am still considering the terms of my reply.

Mr. Thomson

When the Colonial Secretary goes to Central Africa, will he give this matter very urgent consideration and, in particular, consider calling a constitutional conference, perhaps for the early summer, on a revised constitution for Northern Rhodesia so that a truly representative delegation attends the conference on the constitutional future of the Federation?

Mr. Macleod

In relation to constitutional matters, as I explained in my announcement, I am more concerned on this visit with Nyasaland than with Northern Rhodesia. The Northern Rhodesian Constitution was brought into effect in March, 1959, and I have no present plans for altering it.