§ Dr. MarekTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what consultation period will follow the publication of the White Paper on Overseas Territories. [59453]
§ Mr. Tony LloydA date has not yet been set to enact the necessary legislation but the Government will ensure that there is adequate time for all interested parties to present their views before legislation is proposed.
§ Dr. MarekTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when he plans to convene a conference of chief ministers and members of legislatures of overseas territories. [59437]
§ Mr. FatchettIn order to create a stronger, more structured dialogue between Britain and the Overseas Territories we will convene an annual Overseas Territories Council, which will provide a forum for the Chief Ministers284W and Councillors to raise their concerns directly with Ministers. The first Council will be held before next year's Commonwealth Head of Government meeting.