§ 60 and 61. Mr. Teelingasked the Prime Minister (1) whether he is satisfied that the recommendations of the Malta Round-Table Conference are being correctly presented in the proposals being submitted in a Referendum in Malta on 11th and 12th February; whether Her Majesty's Government are satisfied that the conditions of the Referendum will result in a correct expression of Maltese opinion on the recommendations; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what majority Her Majesty's Government are prepared to accept as a clear indication of Maltese opinion in a Referendum on integration with Britain.
§ The Prime MinisterThe decision to hold a referendum, its timing, content and the manner in which it is conducted, are matters for the Maltese Government and courts. As the House was informed on the 15th of December, the Government are considering the report of the Round-Table Conference, but no action will be taken until there has been an opportunity4W of debate. This should preferably be held after the referendum. The House will no doubt then weigh carefully all the relevant factors, including those to which my hon. Friend refers.