HC Deb 22 October 1968 vol 770 c1080
29. Mr. Gwynfor Evans

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the present situation as regards the external affairs of Anguilla.

Mr. Whitlock

Talks are now being held at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office with the Premier of the Associated State of St. Kitts/Nevis/Anguilla and with a delegation from Anguilla. The purpose of the talks, which are purely exploratory, is to discuss what is to take the place of the present interim settlement when it expires in January next year. A statement will be made in due course.

Mr. Evans

In view of the determination expressed by the people of Anguilla to live an autonomous life independently of St. Kitts and the danger of the use of military force against those people by the Government of St. Kitts, under the leadership of Mr. Bradshaw, will the hon. Gentleman undertake to co-operate to establish for Anguilla independent status within the Commonwealth?

Mr. Whitlock

I know of no move on the part of the Government of St. Kitts to invade Anguilla. The hon. Gentleman must await the statement which will be made when these talks are completed.

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