§ 28. Mr. Robert Edwardsasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations if he will make a statement on the outcome of the discussions of Commonwealth officials to consider the establishment of a Commonwealth secretariat.
§ Mr. BottomleyCommonwealth officials met at Marlborough House from 5th-13th January. Their instructions were to frame recommendations for the establishment of a Commonwealth Secretariat and Commonwealth Foundation, in the light of the discussions held by the Prime Ministers at their last meeting in July, 1964. After a series of informal and very friendly meetings, the officials reached agreement on a report which has now been submitted to all Member Governments for their consideration. Meanwhile the contents of the report must be regarded as confidential.