Mr. Brian Harrisonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he will appoint a commissioner to investigate the further constitutional progress of the Gilbert and Ellice Islands Colony.
§ Mr. KershawThe next step in consideration of constitutional progress in the Gilbert and Ellice Islands Colony rests at present with the Colony's Legislative Council. The Council is at present in session, and I understand that a motion is on the Order Sheet in the name of the Leader of Government Business proposing the setting up of a Select Committee to review the operation of the present 519W Constitution and to make recommendations as to what changes, if any, should be made. Her Majesty's Government will await with sympathetic interest any proposals such a Committee may make and the Legislative Council approves.
My right hon. Friend has decided, however, to appoint a Commissioner to visit the Colony soon to study a related problem, namely, the relationship of the Gilbert and Ellice Islands; and, having regard to the suggestion that the two Groups should be separated, and in the light of the political, economic, financial and social circumstances of the peoples of the two Groups, to make recommendations.