§ 12. Mr. Christopher Priceasked the Lord Privy Seal what arrangements he is making for the attendance of Government representatives at the independence 1482 celebrations of the New Hebrides on 30 July.
§ Mr. BlakerI expect to represent Her Majesty's Government at the independence celebrations.
§ Mr. PriceCan the Minister give an assurance that the independence celebrations will go ahead on 30 July? What is being done to ensure that the pledges that were given from the Government Dispatch Box on two occasions this year—that all necessary measures will be taken to put down any problems in other islands—are being fulfilled?
§ Mr. BlakerWe stand by the pledges that we have made. It is our intention that independence shall occur on 30 July as planned. I understand that that is also the intention of the French Government.
§ Mr. Michael McNair-WilsonCan my hon. Friend say what progress is being made with the negotiations within the New Hebrides to bring Espiritu Santo within the total of the islands?
§ Mr. BlakerNegotiations have recently taken place. They ended yesterday, at least for a time. Our representative, and the representative of the French Government, are now on their way back to Europe. I expect to see our representative tomorrow and to receive a full report. So far, I have had only a very brief report.
§ Mrs. DunwoodyWe welcome the Minister's assurance that independence will be granted on 30 July, but is he aware that it is important for the New Hebrides Government to have complete control and territorial integrity? I hope that that is an undertaking which the British Government intend to support.
§ Mr. BlakerThe hon. Lady is aware of the fact that at present one island is in a state of secession. Therefore, at present, there is not complete control. It is our objective to remedy that situation and to bring the New Hebrides to independence as one unit.