HC Deb 17 July 1962 vol 663 cc218-9
10. Mr. Wall

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what progress has been made towards the revision of the Constitution in Basutoland.

Mr. Sandys

I understand that the Constitutional Commission appointed by the Paramount Chief has held a number of meetings. It has also received a large number of memoranda from members of the public, which it is now studying.

Mr. Wall

Can my right hon. Friend say when the Commission is likely to report, and will he agree that the constitutional position of the Paramount Chief is anomalous? Will he give consideration to making him Head of State in Basutoland, subject to the High Commissioner, while Basutoland is still a dependent territory?

Mr. Sandys

I am afraid that I cannot say when I am to receive this report. It first has to be debated by the Basuto National Council before it is sent to me, and, therefore, the timetable is not in my hands. In regard to the position of the Paramount Chief, and whether or not he should be regarded as Head of State, that is one of the questions which was specifically referred to the Commission for consideration.

Forward to