HL Deb 05 July 1954 vol 188 c417

2.37 p.m.

LORD OGMORE

My Lords, I beg to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

[The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will accept as a basis of compromise in the constitutional difficulties in the Federation of Malaya the proposal that the High Commissioner, before filling five of the seven special reserved seats, should consult with the leader or leaders of the majority party after the forthcoming elections have taken place, bearing in mind the special purpose for which these seats are intended.]

THE PARLIAMENTARY UNDERSECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES (THE EARL OF MUNSTER)

My Lords, this matter is under consideration in Malaya. If the noble Lord will be good enough to defer the Question until next Monday, July 12, I hope then to be able to give him a full reply.

LORD OGMORE

My Lords, if it would assist in the negotiations I certainly should be prepared to comply with the noble Earl's request. May I add my own wish that every possible success should accompany the present negotiations?