§ 23. Mr. Sandysasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies when he proposes to convene a conference to consider the grant of independence to British Guiana.
§ Mr. GreenwoodNo decision has yet been taken.
§ Mr. SandysWill the Secretary of State confirm that he stands by the assurance I gave on behalf of the British Government that a conference would be convened after the elections to fix a date for independence, because that was a very honourable and firm undertaking?
§ Mr. GreenwoodYes. The pledge given by Her Majesty's Government at that time remains the policy of the present Administration, but the question of fixing the date is a matter for discussion. I fully understand the anxiety which the right hon. Gentleman has—indeed, I share it—but a good deal of ground has to be prepared before a date for a conference could be announced.
§ Mr. RoseWill my right hon. Friend ensure, before taking any final action before independence, that the leaders of both major political parties in British Guiana are consulted and that they agree to the terms of any independence declaration?
§ Mr. GreenwoodI would be acting improperly if I appeared to be prejudging the constitutional conference.