§ 19. Mr. Bottomleyasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies, if he will appoint any officials as observers of the Malta referendum; and why he has decided not to allow the appointment of a representative of the United Nations Secretary-General.
§ Mr. SandysI am not yet ready to make any statement about the choice of observers.
§ Mr. BottomleyCan the Secretary of State give any idea when this is going to be done? Will it be before the rising of Parliament for the East Recess?
§ Mr. SandysYes, Sir.
§ Mr. JegerWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that he is bound to have questions put to him after this referendum takes place in Malta? Would it not be better for him to arm himself with the views of hon. Members on both sides by sending out an all-party delegation to supervise the referendum?
§ Mr. SandysI am open to any suggestions.
§ Mr. Biggs-DavisonWill at least one of these observers have knowledge of the language and customs of Malta?
§ Mr. SandysI hope so.
§ Mr. DribergIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the right hon. Gentleman's replies on a number of aspects of the Malta problem, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment.