§ 84. Mr. J. Johnsonasked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations whether he will consider the establishment of executive and legislative councils in the High Commission Territories of Basutoland, Bechuanaland and Swaziland.
§ Mr. J. FosterHis Majesty's Government's aim is to develop representative and responsible institutions in the High Commission Territories. At their present stage of development the main emphasis is on local government. But all three Territories have advisory councils with territory-wide representation, which are consulted by the Resident Commissioners on important matters of concern to the inhabitants. Until further progress has been made, it would be premature to consider the grant of executive and legislative powers.
§ 85. Mr. J. Johnsonasked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations if he will consider the need of appointing a Royal Commission to inquire into the constitutional and economic conditions of the High Commission Territories of Basutoland, Bechuanaland and Swaziland.
§ Mr. J. FosterNo.