§ 11. Mr. Fowlerasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will make a statement about his recent conversations with the Leader of the Bahamas Opposition.
§ 17. Mr. Sharplesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what action he proposes to take in the light of complaints concerning affairs in the Bahamas officially made to him by Mr. Lynden Pindling.
§ Mr. Frederick LeeMr. Pindling raised matters relating to the internal affairs of the Bahamas on which I have also had representations from other sources. I asked the Governor to come to London so that I could have the benefit of his personal advice; he arrived this morning. He has told me that the Premier of the Bahamas welcomes an authoritative investigation by outside experts into the allegations concerning the administration of casino gambling in the Bahamas.
Allegations have also been made against certain members of the Bahamas Government and Administration. Since, I understand, these are to be the subject of legal action for libel, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further.
§ Mr. FowlerIs my right hon. Friend aware that many of us have felt deep concern at suggestions in the American and British Press that American gangsters are present in the Bahamas operating gambling rackets and that members of the Bahamas Executive Council are concerned, and that we are grateful for his statement today?
§ Mr. SharplesWhile welcoming the Secretary of State's statement, may I ask what form the investigation will take? Will it be in the form of a Royal Commission, as has been suggested to the right hon. Gentleman?
§ Mr. LeeI am having further discussions with the Governor and I can then report back to the House.