53. Mr. W. T. Williamsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what proposals Her Majesty's Government have for the future of British Honduras; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Frederick LeeAt the 1963 Constitutional Conference it was recognised that independence was a natural and legitimate aspiration for the people of British Honduras. Both political parties in the country have declared themselves in favour of eventual independence within the Commonwealth.
§ Mr. James Johnsonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what are the next steps in constitutional advance for British Honduras; and whether he will give an assurance that he will institute a referendum in this colony before any amalgamation with Guatemala is attempted.
§ Mr. Frederick LeeI would refer to my reply earlier today to my hon. Friend the Member for Warrington (Mr. W. T. Williams). There is no question of the dispute with Guatemala being settled on any basis which is not in accordance with the wishes of British Honduras.