§ 19. Mr. N. Pannellasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware of the recent statements made by the Premier of the Southern Cameroons criticising the activities of United Kingdom expatriate officials; and whether, in order to maintain confidence in the public service, he will call for the withdrawal of these statements.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodI have seen Press reports of the Premier's remarks and have asked for a report.
§ Mr. PannellDoes my right hon. Friend agree that such remarks have a most discouraging effect on British officials in West Africa, many of whom will be required to serve in these countries after they have attained independence?
§ Mr. MacleodYes. We will inevitably have a very difficult problem of staffing on the separation of the Southern Cameroons, and certainly if these remarks were made I would very much deplore them.