Mr. Brian Harrisonasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what discussions are currently proceeding about the position of expatriates in the Pacific territories; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BowdenAn interdepartmental working party of officials is considering the staffing of the public services in the Pacific territories, including the position of expatriate officers. A mission from the working party has just returned from discussions in the Western Pacific territories and in Fiji with the Administrations and staff representatives. I hope that study of the mission's report may lead to early decisions and I will make a statement on the matter as soon as possible.