§ 29. Mr. Chichester-Clarkasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs when he expects to receive the report 941 of the mediator with regard to problems concerning British Honduras outstanding between Guatemala and the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. Goronwy RobertsI cannot say when the report is likely to be received. As I explained to the hon. Gentleman on 5th December, 1967, it is for the mediator to disclose his recommendations when he feels ready to do so.—[Vol. 755, c. 268.]
§ Mr. Chichester-ClarkIs the hon. Gentleman prepared to repeat the earlier assurances given to my hon. Friend the Member for Torquay (Sir F. Bennett) and others that, in the event of a constitutional change in the position of British Honduras, the voice of the people will be decisive, not that of the political parties?
§ Mr. RobertsThis question was very adequately dealt with when it was raised and answered by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs and my hon. Friend the Minister of State. Our attitude is that we should stand ready to be consulted by the Government of British Honduras about the form of consultation, if necessary, at the time when matters arise from the mediator's report.
§ Mr. James JohnsonWill my hon. Friend bear in mind the bitter opposition of the Official Opposition, led by Philip Goldson, and of the loyalist and Commonwealth elements in the country? Can he give an assurance on behalf of Her Majesty's Government that the usual forms of consultation will take place—talks at Lancaster House before independence and an election before independence—in the case of this Colony as with all other Colonies?
§ Mr. RobertsI can give the assurance that all proper forms of consultation will be followed in this case.
§ Mr. BraineIs the hon. Gentleman aware that there is still a great deal of anxiety on both sides of the House about this? If as a result of the promised consultation of the people after the mediator's report a majority come out against cession to Guatemala, is it the Government's intention to stand by the wishes of the people?
§ Mr. RobertsThat is not a question that I can give an answer to now. It is a hypothetical question to which it would not be wise to give an answer. The answers which have been given are that we shall have the proper forms of consultation with the lawfully and democratically elected Government of British Honduras when the time comes.
§ Mr. MaudlingWhy cannot the Minister of State answer the question now? Are the Government saying that they want to retain the right to override the views of the majority of the people of this territory?
§ Mr. RobertsNo, we have not said that at all. What we have said is that it is normal and proper for Her Majesty's Government to consult the lawful and democratically elected Government of British Honduras.
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder.
§ Mr. Chichester-ClarkIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of that reply, I beg to give notice that I shall seek to raise the matter on the Adjournment.