HC Deb 18 May 1965 vol 712 c1188
17. Mr. Jackson

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what is the present position concerning plans for the establishment of a Commonwealth Secretariat.

Mr. Bottomley

Consultations with the Heads of Commonwealth Governments have been continuing and I hope that final decisions on the establishment of a Commonwealth Secretariat will be taken at the Commonwealth Prime Ministers' Meeting next month.

Mr. Jackson

Does my right hon. Friend feel it likely that the Secretariat will operate during the present conference, and is there now agreement on the name of the head of the Secretariat?

Mr. Bottomley

There were several nominations. This is an important office and a decision has not yet been taken. It is unlikely to be taken before the meeting of the Commonwealth Prime Ministers.

Mr. Tilney

Is there any agreement on the actual site from which the Secretariat will operate?

Mr. Bottomley

Yes, Sir—London.

Mr. Henry Clark

Will the right hon. Gentleman also make a statement on the aims and objects of the Secretariat? A Secretariat without aims and objects is likely to be more of a hindrance than a help.

Mr. Bottomley

This is a matter for the Commonwealth Prime Ministers jointly. No doubt they will make a statement in due course.

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