Dr. MORGANasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether it is now the intention of the present Government to appoint a Royal Commission with wide terms of reference to consider and report on the whole situation in the West Indies; whether he is aware of the desire for such a commission in these colonies; and whether he has received any resolutions from public bodies urging such a course?
§ Dr. SHIELSThe desirability of instituting an inquiry into the system of government in the Leeward Islands and the possibility of combination with other Governments has been suggested by a number of gentlemen interested in that colony, including members of the Antigua Executive and Legislative Councils, with a view to effecting a reduction in expenditure. This proposal is under the consideration of my Noble Friend. No 627W resolution from any public body advocating the appointment of a Royal Commission to go to the West Indies with wide terms of reference has been received, and at present there is no intention to appoint such a Commission.