asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of African opposition to recent unofficial proposals for federation in central Africa, he will consider convening a conference to explore the possibility of a federation of Nyasaland and Northern Rhodesia.

No, Sir. My right hon. Friend does not consider that it would be opportune to call such a conference.

The hon. Gentleman will recall that the Bledisloe Commission which reported in 1939 rather strongly advocated the unification of these two territories, and would he give weight to the considerations contained in that Report?

Weight is always given to the consideration of all reports.