§ 10. Mr. Bryant Godman Irvineasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the latest situation in Mauritius.
§ Mr. George ThomsonRelations between Creoles and Muslime in Port Louis are still uneasy and there have been a few minor incidents in recent days. The general situation is, however, much quieter than it was 10 days ago.
§ Mr. IrvineCan the Minister make a statement about the position of British troops after independence?
§ Mr. ThomsonNot yet, Sir. No decision has been taken about how long they may stay in Mauritius.
§ Mr. James JohnsonWill my right hon. Friend take note that we should like a situation in which the troops stay after independence? We believe that the gang warfare has been in the port itself and had no connection with political events. We believe that there could be events after independence and we should like to see troops kept there in case there is a future emergency.
§ Mr. ThomsonThe duration of the stay of British troops must be decided in the light of the internal situation.
§ Mr. BraineThe first answer has added to the uncertainty. Surely discussions are going on now about arrangements after independence? Cannot the right hon. Gentleman say that if the Mauritius Government request it British troops will in fact stay?
§ Mr. ThomsonMy noble Friend the Minister of State is at present in Mauritius. One of the reasons for his going there was to discuss the defence situation there—both the Defence Agreement which will be signed immediately after independence, and of course the general security situation.