§ Q3. Mr. Brockwayasked the Prime Minister if he will make a statement on the consultations he has had with the heads of state of Commonwealth nations regarding the recognition of the independence of Southern Rhodesia.
§ The Prime MinisterHer Majesty's Government are in touch with other Commonwealth Governments on this question but in accordance with normal practice such consultations are confidential.
§ Mr. BrockwayWould the right hon. Gentleman agree that, as the House will have to make the ultimate decision upon this matter, it is desirable that hon. Members should be aware of the point of view of other Commonwealth countries? Can he say whether it is the case, as has been reported not only in Salisbury but in London, that not only the Asian and African members of the Commonwealth, but some of the Dominions have expressed the view that the independence of Southern Rhodesia should not be accepted until there is a change in the Constitution?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir. I was referring to communications between Commonwealth Governments and ourselves which I think I have no right to make public. The hon. Member may have observed that in his speech in the Southern Rhodesian Legislature on 18th June, Mr. Winston Field referred to representations which had been made to him by the Canadian, Australian and New Zealand Governments when he was here in London.
§ Mr. StracheyAs Mr. Field has made that statement, would not the Prime Minister think it better either to confirm or deny it, so that we know where we are in this matter? Assuming that Mr. Field is accurate, as one must surely assume, is it not an important part of the data on which we can reach a decision to have confirmation of his statement?
§ The Prime MinisterI am certain that the statement is correct, but that is rather different from publishing the texts of communications which I may have received from Commonwealth Governments.