§ 11. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what steps he has now taken in respect of the formation of the proposed Malaysian Federation; and, in particular, what consultations he has had on this matter.
§ Mr. FisherI have been asked to reply.
The Intergovernmental Committee referred to in my right hon. Friend's statement in the House of 1st August is now engaged in its task. My noble 1381 friend Lord Lansdowne will be presiding over a plenary meeting of the Committee in North Borneo this week.
§ Mr. SorensenMay I ask the hon. Gentleman, first, if he can say about what time the report will be made by this Committee; and, secondly, may I take it that the Brunei Protectorate is fully co-operating in the preparations for this Federation?
§ Mr. FisherIt is rather difficult to say when the work of this Committee will be complete, but it is going well, and should, on present form, be complete, I hope, by the New Year.
§ Mr. SorensenCould the Minister say whether Brunei is fully co-operating in the preparations for this Federation?
§ Mr. FisherYes, Sir, as my right hon. Friend said in his statement on 1st August, the Sultan has been told that Brunei's inclusion in Malaysia would be very welcome. Brunei has sent observers, as I am sure the hon. Gentleman knows, to the Intergovernmental Committee. We are not forcing a decision, but Brunei would be very welcome if she wishes to join.