§ 65. Mrs. Hartasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware that the strike in Aden on Monday, 23rd July, involving 50,000 people, was in protest against the new constitutional proposals for integration of Aden with the Federation of South Arabia; and if he will undertake to ascertain the views of the people of Aden on the future of the Colony by means other than an election based on the present limited electoral roll.
§ Mr. SandysYes. With regard to the constitutional talks, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I have given today to the hon. Member for Bilston (Mr. R. Edwards).
§ 66. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a further statement about the discussions on the projected federation of Aden Colony and the Protectorates; and what was the extent of the one-day token strike in the Colony.
§ Mr. SandysI refer the hon. Member to my reply to the hon. Member for Bikiton (Mr. R. Edwards). As to the strike, the majority of petroleum, industrial and port workers struck, but bunkering and mooring services were maintained. All Government employees and about 60 per cent. of those employed by H.M. Forces worked. Public transport services with one exception, ran normally. There were no incidents.
§ 67. Mr. R. Edwardsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what new constitutional proposals for the integration of the colony of Aden with the Federation of South Arabia have been considered at the recent London conference, over which he presided; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. SandysIf the talks have made sufficient progress, I hope I may be able to make a statement before the House rises.