§ Mr. Roperasked the Lord Privy Seal what progress has been made in the negotiations for the independence of the New Hebrides; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BlakerTogether with the French Minister concerned—M. Dijoud—I attended a constitutional conference in Vila from 17–19 September. The conference unanimously agreed a draft independence constitution, and set the date of 14 November for fresh elections to the Representative Assembly. The new Government then elected will lead the territory to independence in 1980.