HC Deb 10 April 1946 vol 421 cc323-4W
94. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will consider amending the Fiji Constitution to ensure that in any matter of local concern where a substantial majority of elected Legislative Council members support a motion, it should not be vetoed by the Governor without prior reference to himself.

Mr. George Hall:

Yes, Sir. I will consider this point in consultation with the Governor.

95. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if sympathetic consideration is being given to the demand of the European Electors Association of Fiji for constitutional reform to provide for the abolition of unofficial nominated members and a majority of elected members in the Legislative Council elected on the basis of universal suffrage; that members representing Fijians should be elected and not nominated; and that unofficial nominated members of the Executive Council should be selected from elected members of the Legislative Council.

Mr. George Hall:

I am aware that proposals for reform on these lines have been put forward by certain of the European electors. But I am not sure how far they would receive general public support in Fiji. I will include the matters raised by my hon. Friend in the inquiries which I am making of the Governor.