§ 16. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what progress has been made in the talks between the 619 Governor of Aden and Ministers from the Federation and Colony; what decisions have been made about accessions to and secessions from the Federation, and closer association between the Protectorates and Aden Colony; and what conditions have been submitted in respect of such closer association by elected representatives in Aden Colony.
§ Mr. MaudlingReasonable progress has been made, considering the complexity of the problems involved. The Wahidi Sultanate recently applied to join the Federation. There have been no secessions. The answer to the last two parts of the Question is: None so far.
§ Mr. SorensenWhilst one appreciates the complexity of the situation, may I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman would agree that there is a good deal of ambiguity about the whole question? One is not quite certain what is required or demanded by the various parties involved. Could he clarify the matter and determine whether there is a genuine desire to link up with the Federation or not?
§ Mr. MaudlingThe Governor, in a speech on 22nd January, said:
Her Majesty's Government consider that there are great advantages for both Colony and Federation in a much closer link between them.
§ The question of how to start and when is being discussed at the present moment. I do not want to hurry those discussions. I think that they must be thorough.