§ 26. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what powers granted by original treaties are today exercised by Her Majesty's Government with the Governor of Aden in respect of the Aden Protectorate; and how far those treaties have been subsequently extended or amended.
§ Mr. SandysHer Majesty's Government have responsibility for defence and external relations, supplemented in some of the more recent treaties by the right to give mandatory advice on matters connected with good government. In addition, the Treaty of Friendship and Protection between Britain and the Federation of South Arabia provides for shared responsibility for the internal security of the Federation. The original treaties have not been amended.
§ Mr. SorensenHas any such mandatory advice been given to the rulers of the Protectorates regarding the need to introduce at least some measure of de-mocratisation? If that has not been done, and in any case if it has been done, can the right hon. Gentleman say whether Her Majesty's Government intend to give such mandatory advice to the rulers in the future?
§ Mr. SandysIn internal affairs these are self-governing friendly States, and it is not our intention, unless there are very special circumstances, to interfere in any way in their traditional institutions.
§ Mr. SorensenDoes not the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that if we have power and responsibility in respect of giving mandatory advice and wish to encourage closer association between the Protectorates and the Colony, there 216 is an obligation upon Her Majesty's Government at least to give such advice as I have mentioned?
§ Mr. SandysThe fact that one has power does not necessarily mean that it is always desirable or right to exercise it.