§ 2. Mr. F. M. Bennettasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what assurances were given by Her Majesty's Government during the last eighteen months to the Federal Government about the continuance without review of the then existing Northern Rhodesian constitution.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodCommunications between Commonwealth Governments are confidential, but it was made clear publicly as long ago as March, 1960, that, while Her Majesty's Government had at that time no plans in contemplation for change in the Northern Rhodesia Constitution, changes could not be ruled out in all circumstances.
§ Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies which chiefs did, and which did not, endorse his constitutional proposals for Northern Rhodesia.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodThe chiefs have not expressed individual opinions but the Northern Rhodesia Council of Chiefs issued a joint statement on 22nd February. The Council, which represents all the chiefs in Northern Rhodesia, excluding Barotseland, accepted the new proposals as an interim measure which provided some constitutional advance for Africans. They maintained their view that there should be an African majority in the Executive and Legislative Councils and they felt that there should be a lowering of the franchise qualifications as soon as possible to allow the African population to be more fully represented. They re-affirmed their desire to retain the protection of Her Majesty's Government.