HC Deb 24 May 1960 vol 624 cc208-9
38. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a comprehensive statement of his plans for the development of representative and democratic institutions in the countries of East Africa for which he is responsible.

The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Iain Macleod)

As has been made clear on a number of occasions, Her Majesty's Government's policy in respect of the East African territories is to build self-governing nations within the Commonwealth based on representative parliamentary institutions and on a general acceptance that every race and community have the right to maintain their homes there and to play their part in public and economic life.

In Tanganyika there will be an elected majority in the legislature following the September elections and, with effect from 1st October, a new Council of Ministers with ten unofficials, including a Chief Minister, with two Civil Service Ministers and a Deputy Governor. Her Majesty's Government's aims for Kenya are set out in Cmnd. 960. As regards Uganda. I would refer the hon. and learned Member to the Governor's statement in the Legislative Council on 22nd February, 1960, copies of which are in the Library.

A Commissioner is at present conducting a review of the present constitution of Zanzibar.

Mr. Hughes

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that his clear and detailed description is bound to do a great deal of good in clearing the air in East Africa? I thank him for it.

Mr. Stonehouse

Is the Colonial Secretary able to add to his statement in regard to Uganda? Will he use this opportunity to make it absolutely clear that the advance towards a fully democratic constitution will in no way be impeded by the vested interests of feudal and tribal authorities?

Mr. Macleod

I do not know on which point the hon. Member would like me to amplify my statement in relation to Uganda, but next month I am going to receive a representative deputation from the Legislative Council of Uganda, and I have also invited representatives of the rulers to come to see me, if they wish to do so. I think it only right to hear all points of view in considering this important advance for the country.

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