§ Mr. Gammansasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations whether he is aware that by the North America Act, 1867, Newfoundland cannot be included in the Canadian Union except on an Address from the Newfoundland Legislature which does not now exist; and what action is proposed in these circumstances.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerI am aware of the position under the British North America Act, 1867, to which the hon. Member refers. Legislation will at a later stage be required to provide for the entry of Newfoundland into the Canadian Confederation. The precise form which this legislation should take is still under consideration.
§ Mr. Gammansasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations whether he is aware that at the recent referendum in Newfoundland, on an 84 per cent. poll, only 52 per cent. voted for confederation with Canada; and whether upon this inconclusive authority it is proposed to proceed with the scheme for confederation.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerHis Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom gave close consideration to the result of the recent referendum in Newfoundland as soon as this was known. When the readiness of the Canadian Government to proceed with Confederation was announced in a statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on 30th July, the United Kingdom Government expressed their agreement with this course. I cannot accept the view that the authority for this course expressed by the people of Newfoundland in the referendum was inconclusive.