§ Mr. Westasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware of the broadcast statement on the political situation in the Gold Coast recently made by the Acting Governor; and if he will make a statement.
Mr. Creech JonesYes. The full text of the Acting Governor's statement has been placed in the Library of the House.
For some time past efforts have been made by a group in the Gold Coast to exert improper pressure on the committee on constitutional reform which is now in session, both to hurry its proceedings and to influence its findings. The propaganda employed by this group threatens to prejudice public order and the maintenance of essential services if its desires are not met. The Gold Coast Government has been anxious throughout that there shall be every possible liberty of discussion and comment on the question of constitutional advance. But it is obviously necessary that stability and good order shall be maintained.
I fully endorse the terms of the Acting Governor's statement. I share his confidence that it will be welcomed by the great majority of responsible people in the Gold Coast. The Gold Coast Government and its officers have a difficult task to perform but they have our support in carrying out the responsibilites of ordered government.