Mr. Brian Harrisonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will make a statement on the discussions with French officials on 21st and 22nd March concerning the Government of the Condominium of the New Hebrides.
§ Mr. Frederick LeeAt the talks on the New Hebrides in Paris last July between my right hon. Friend who is now the Minister of Overseas Development and Monsieur Louis Jacquinot, the then French Minister responsible for New Hebrides affairs, it was agreed that regular metropolitan meetings should be held. The meeting of 21st and 22nd March, which was at official level, was held in accordance with this arrangement. The meeting continued the examination of measures for the reform of the internal administration of the New Hebrides. I hope that it will be possible to hold further discussions on these matters with our French partners later in the year.