§ 2. Mr. K. Lewisasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many Colonies or protectorates having populations of 25,000 or less come within the control of his Department; and how many are in size less than 152 square miles.
§ Mr. SandysThe answers to the two parts of the Question are 7 and 13, respectively.
§ Mr. LewisIs my right hon. Friend aware that I find it quite interesting that there should be so many countries for which his Department is responsible none of which is larger than Rutland? Since we have a local inquiry this week to consider the independence of that county, will my right hon. Friend bear in mind, and persuade his colleagues to bear in mind, that if there is a threat to the independence of Rutland we shall put up as big a fight as the Colonies put up when they seek their independence?
§ Mr. SpeakerDespite the present duties of the Minister, I do not think that they cover that field.
§ Mr. SandysI do not think it is any use comparing an English county with a Pacific island.