§ Mr. Iremongerasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what consideration is being given by the Fiji Government to the Burns Commission Report on the Colony's problems; and when he expects to be able to make a statement of policy regarding its recommendations.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodDecisions on many of the minor recommendations in the Report have been reached. But on the major issues, notably the proposals for the reorganisation of land and the future of the Fijian Administration, the Government of Fiji wishes to allow ample time to obtain the considered views of the general public, of Members of the Legislative Council, and, on those matters affecting particularly Fijian rights and interests, of the Fijian authorities and people.
The Fijian Affairs Board has already spent much time in studying and discussing the Report. It is to be considered by Provincial Councils at special meetings this month, by the Council of Chiefs in August and by the Legislative Council in September or October. In the meantime, a Development Plan based on the recommendations in the Report is being prepared. In these circumstances, I do not expect to be able to make a statement until later in the year when I have received and considered the recommendations of the Government of Fiji on the major issues.