HC Deb 06 June 1961 vol 641 cc875-6
29. Mr. G. M. Thomson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what stage negotiations between the Southern Cameroons and the Cameroun Republic have now reached; and to what extent the possibility of a federal constitution is being discussed.

Mr. H. Fraser

The Premier of the Southern Cameroons and the President of the Cameroun Republic had discussions in Yaounde from 22nd to 24th May. At this meeting they confirmed that reunification of their two countries should be on the basis of a Federation. Further discussions are to be held very shortly.

Mr. Thomson

While welcoming the assurance from the Minister that reunification will take place on the basis of federation, which seems the only practicable basis given the difficulties, can the Minister give us an assurance that these negotiations will be completed in time for the elections in the Southern Cameroons in September, and in time for the reunification to be completed by 1st October, without any danger of an administrative breakdown?

Mr. Fraser

Obviously, the whole question of an administrative breakdown fills the thoughts of my right hon. Friend at this moment, and this we are bearing in mind. Discussions are going on, and we are trying to be as helpful as we can in what is inevitably a difficult situation.

31. Mr. G. M. Thomson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what arrangements are being made to staff the administration and to maintain law and order in the Southern Cameroons pending the completion of arrangements for association with the Cameroun Republic.

Mr. H. Fraser

Until 1st October, 1961, when United Kingdom Trusteeship ends, the present arrangements will continue in force. Arrangements after that date are being discussed between the authorities concerned in the Southern Cameroons and the Cameroun Republic.

Mr. Thomson

Is the Minister aware that there is now a very short time in which to deal with extremely complicated problems? Will he agree that there is an overriding responsibility on Her Majesty's Government, as the administering authority, to maintain law and order there and not to leave a Congo type of chaos? Would the Minister give us an assurance that if there are to be difficulties about timing the Government will go back to the United Nations and try to get an extension in order to ensure that law and order are preserved and that the reunification takes place peaceably?

Mr. Fraser

I will certainly report my hon. Friend's views to my right hon. Friend. We are determined to see that the hand-over is correct and that the problems on which he has tried to touch are met.

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