asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what progress he has made in arranging for the enlarged Admiralty jurisdiction contained in the Administration of Justice Act, 1956, to be incorporated into the respective legal systems of Barbados, British Antarctic Territory and Tonga.

asked the Secretary of State of Commonwealth Affairs how far his plans to enlarge Admiralty jurisdiction under the Administration of Justice Act, 1956, have progressed; and what are the present limits of that juridiction.

The provision of comparable jurisdiction in territories for which my right hon. Friend is responsible is almost complete and I am arranging to let my hon. and learned Friend have details.

We have no responsibility for the position in Barbados since independence.

In regard to British Antarctic Territory, I have nothing to add to the reply given to the hon. and learned Member for Antrim, South (Sir Knox Cunningham) on 3rd August last year. [Vol. 68, c. 142.]

The Government of Tonga have not decided whether they wish the legislation to be extended to their territory.

Will the hon. Lady draw the attention of those territories, which do not want this change, to the "Torrey Canyon" disaster and point out to them that, in a like case, there can be no recovery from a sister ship in their courts unless they adopt this enlarged Admiralty jurisdiction which, as she has said, the other Commonwealth countries have gladly given to their courts?

The hon. and learned Gentleman will be interested to know that later this afternoon my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade is answering a Question which touches on this. Clearly, the implications of the "Torrey Canyon" will be considered in respect of the various maritime functions of different States.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what progress he has made in arranging for the incorporation of the terms of the Merchant Shipping (Liability of Shipowners and Others) Act, 1958, into the respective legal systems of Aden, Antigua, Saint Christopher-Nevis-An-guilla, Saint Helena and Tonga.

In regard to Antigua, St. Christopher-Nevis-Anguilla and Tonga, I have nothing to add to the replies given to the hon. and learned Member last summer. The provisions of the 1958 Act have been incorporated into the legal system of St. Helena through the Ship-owners' Liability (St. Helena) Order 1966.

As far as Aden is concerned, questions should be addressed to my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary.

Will the hon. Lady point out to those territories which do not want this Act that there is an infinitesimal limit of liability of £7 per ton for their citizens under the present law and that, unless they adopt this Act in their courts, their people will suffer very real hardship in a similar case to the "Torrey Canyon"?

I am sure that those territories which have responsibility for making their own decisions will have in mind the implications of the "Torrey Canyon" disaster.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs how many African Commonwealth countries have negotiated or declared their intentions of negotiating with the European Economic Community for associate status.

In July, 1966, Nigeria concluded limited association agreement with the Community which has still to be ratified. Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, acting together, have initiated negotiations for limited association. I am not aware of any declarations by other Commonwealth Governments in Africa of their intention to seek association with the Community.

Is not this practice spreading because the independent countries believe it to be in their interests to seek association with the Community?

The arrangement whereby Commonwealth countries may, if they so wish, seek association with the Community was agreed in the consideration of entry some years ago. It would appear to be desirable in the case of some Commonwealth countries, and we should certainly welcome it.

Can the right hon. Gentleman tell the House what will be the position in regard to Rhodesia? Has Rhodesia made any overtures to the European Economic Community? What would be the attitude of Her Majesty's Government if Rhodesia made such overtures?

Of course, there is no Government in Rhodesia. Her Majesty's Government are the Government of Rhodesia, and we have not made applicacation for associate status.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Gov- ernment of Tanzania, regarding discrimination against British subjects of Arab and Asian descent.

None, Sir. So far as we are aware there has been no discrimination in Tanzania on grounds of race against United Kingdom citizens of Arab and Asian descent.

Are the hon. Gentleman and the Government aware that many Arab and Indian citizens who were born in Tanzania and who, until recently, were British subjects are being expelled by the Government of that country and victimised in many worse ways? Can Her Majesty's Government not make some protest, or are they leaving it, as usual, to such freedom-loving democratic fellow members of the United Nations as Haiti and Mali to do so?

It is true that, in January of this year, there was a check among non-Tanzanian citizens who were not in possession of valid residence permits. This led to a number of people being classified as prohibited immigrants. Whenever we seek to make representations to the Tanzanian Government, we do it through our Canadian friends.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what further steps his Department is taking to ensure the economic viability of Gibraltar, in view of the continuing difficulties with Spain.

As announced by my right hon. Friend the Colonial Secretary at the end of last year—[Vol. 738, c. 1158]—Her Majesty's Government are providing an extra £600,000 from Colonial Development and Welfare funds for prejects under the Gibraltar Government's Development Plan and a special grant-in-aid of £100,000 to the Gibraltar budget for 1967. In the first months of this year revenue and imports have been satisfactory and the number of tourists has increased. Further talks will be held between the two Governments later this year to decide on the next stages of the plan.

Would not the hon. Lady agree that the chief threat to Gibraltar comes in the economic sphere from Spain, and that the best possible way of bringing some relief to the people of Gibraltar is by announcing economic measures to ensure the viability of that colony to make Spain realise for ever more that she has no chance of bringing it to its knees?

The Gibraltar Government are pushing ahead as fast as they can with plans for economic development and, as my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary has said in the House, we are very ready to help in any way that we can.

Has not the time come to make our position unequivocally clear to the Spanish Government, and will my hon. Friend now consider withdrawing financial and travel facilities to that country?

I think my hon. Friend will know that my right hon. Friend made the Government's position quite clear in his statement on 13th April, and we shall continue to make our position totally clear.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what instructions he has sent to the Governor to forestall any resultant danger to aircraft landings arising from the unlawful works now being undertaken by the Spanish authorities in the neutral zone.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs whether it is proposed to continue to use Gibraltar in the normal way despite the restrictions announced by the Spanish Government.

No danger is foreseen to aircraft landings in consequence of the Spanish activities in the northern area of the isthmus, which Britain does not claim to be British territory. Accordingly, no special instructions have been sent to the Governor on this. But the manner in which recent demolitions have been carried out has caused extensive minor damage to roofs and windows of adjacent buildings, to parked cars, and to the frontier fence itself. The Spanish Ambassador was informed yesterday that we are seriously concerned about this and that we reserve the right to claim compensation.

As to the restrictions announced by the Spanish Government on 12th April, my right hon. Friend stated on the following day that we intend to uphold to the full our right to use the airfield at Gibraltar. We have sought clarification from Spain about the extent and possible effect of the prohibited area. We have arranged that if the position is not clarified to our satisfaction the matter will be raised in the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organisation on 10th May. Meanwhile the Board of Trade is in close touch with the civil airlines.

Is the hon. Lady aware that in previous Questions and Answers I, at least, had been given to understand that we do not accept the right of the Spaniards to erect buildings and to carry out demolition in a neutral zone, and that whereas we might not claim it as British, we did regard it as neutral? Is the hon. Lady announcing a shift in attitude, namely, that we accede to the Spaniards the right to carry out these works in what is called the neutral zone?

No, Sir. The hon. Gentleman would be wrong in drawing that conclusion. The position is that we do not claim that this territory is part of Gibraltar. To that extent Spanish works cannot be considered unlawful, but the territory has never been defined in terms of international law.

Does the hon. Lady know how Spain intends to try to enforce this new restriction? Will the hon. Lady confirm the very strong resentment felt by both sides of the House, and I believe by British people as a whole, about this latest example of Spain's bullying tactics towards Gibraltar, which has done nothing to provoke them?

I confirm that that is our view, and it is for this reason that the Spanish Ambassador was given our clear thinking on this matter yesterday. It was made clear that we reserve the right to claim compensation, and that we deplore this kind of thing.

As I have said, the question of flying rights over Gibraltar is a matter which is now in the process of being clarified with Spain. If we do not get satisfactory clarification, we shall raise the matter at I.C.A.O. next week.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what criteria require to be satisfied before he recognises a party as an official opposition in a Colony; and whether, in view of the fact that the only opposition in Gibraltar now is the Integration Party, putting up candidates at the coming by-election and the next general election, in future he will ensure that the Integration Party is invited to all-party discussions with Gibraltar on its future.

The question of official recognition does not arise.

If and when all-party discussions on Gibraltar are held we will certainly bear in mind the claims of the Integration Party to participate.

Is it not true that, when negotiations were held about Malta and other countries which are now independent, all parties were invited and that we have now been asking the Gibraltar Government and everyone there to be united in their discussions with the United Nations? Therefore, why can we not ask the Integration Party to come too?

A great deal depends on the constitutional position in the territory concerned. The point in Gibraltar is that there is no provision for the appointment by the Governor of a Leader of the Opposition. The relevant fact is that the Integration Party are not at present represented on the Gibraltar Legislative Council, but I hope to discuss things with them when I am there and we shall certainly consider any matters they raise.

Would the hon. Lady bear in mind that the idea of integration of Gibraltar with Great Britain has many friends in this country? In view of the entirely new position which is now developing, with both sides of the House showing almost complete unanimity in condemning Spanish behaviour, can she not take the initiative and invite integrationists from Gibraltar to London to discuss the future?

The hon. Gentleman may not be aware that I am going to Gibraltar on Friday.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs whether, in view of the coming by-election in Gibraltar, he will consider not sending any Minister to visit Gibraltar until after the election so that no one will consider that he, or she, is influencing the election by such a visit.

My visit cannot reasonably be construed as intended to influence the forthcoming by-election in Gibraltar in any way.

Would the hon. Lady tell us why? Surely a most attractive lady like herself can influence quite a lot, and the election is only a few weeks ahead. She has told us that she will next week use some influence for something. Will it be against the Integration Party?

The hon. Gentleman must surely be clear—I thought that the whole House would welcome the fact—that I am proposing to go to Gibraltar to have discussions with every section of opinion to acquaint myself fully with the situation on the spot. I think that my visit has been generally welcomed in Gibraltar.

While Ministers' visits to by-elections are not uniformly successful, would the hon. Lady be careful, in any public statements which she may make in Gibraltar, to say nothing which may be construed as affecting the by-election?

The right hon. Gentleman can be assured that Ministers, in these situations, can be guaranteed to behave with due perspicacity.

Whatever may be the view of Her Majesty's Government towards the suggestion made in this Question, will we continue to give complete moral support to the people of Gibraltar, who are loyal to the Crown?

I assure my hon. and learned Friend that one of my basic intentions in visiting Gibraltar is to convey to the people of Gibraltar exactly the views he has just expressed.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what is Her Majesty's Government's present policy on offering aid to Australia and New Zealand in connection with the Vietnam war; and if he will make a statement.

We have made no offer of aid to Australia or New Zealand in connection with the Vietnam war, nor have they requested any.

Does not the Minister recall that both New Zealand and Australia came to our aid in the defence of our country twice in this century? In view of the fact that the Russians are helping the North Vietnamese, could not the Government possibly change their policy, and, even if they are not asked, offer the Australians and New Zealanders such help as we can give?

The Government's position in relation to this problem of participation by Australia and New Zealand in Vietnam is very well and clearly known by both those Governments. With regard to the Russians, we view the position rather differently from our co-Chairman, the Russians.

Can my right hon. Friend tell us in what way the people of Vietnam, or its armies of defence, are hurting in any way, or imperilling, the freedom of Australia and New Zealand?

I hardly think that that arises for me on this question of aid to Australia and New Zealand.

As the Government believe that the Americans, Australians, and New Zealanders are doing the right thing in protecting South Vietnam against Communist aggression, how does the right hon. Gentleman explain to our Australian and New Zealand friends that we are not prepared to help them in any way?

On one or two occasions when I was in Australia and New Zealand I explained that we are co-Chairmen with the Russians under the Agreement, and it is our job to try to find a solution to the problem.

In view of the concern among hon. Gentlemen opposite, would it be possible for the right hon. Member for Barnet (Mr. Maudling) to ask for volunteers from the Conservative Party to go to Vietnam?

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what protest has been made to the Zambian Government about the treatment of Mr. Cunningham and Miss Challis; and what explanation has been received.

None, Sir. Both of these persons left Zambia of their own accord.

I understand that both these British subjects have been subjected to a travesty of justice? They escaped from the country just before warrants were issued for their arrest. Is the hon. Gentleman aware that Mr. Cunningham's property has been sold without his permission? Will the hon. Gentleman look into this case in some detail?

I am always willing to look into any case which the hon. Gentleman brings to my attention, but I must tell the House that neither of these persons asked our High Commissioner to make any protest.

Is my hon. Friend aware that Mr. Cunningham stated in Salisbury two days ago that last week he met 20 Conservative Members in Britain, but not any member of the British public who was not supporting Ian Smith? Does my hon. Friend have any idea of the names of this Fifth Column?

The gentleman referred to met me, and I must say that I could not have made much impression. He must have forgotten it, because I gave him no impression of support for Mr. Smith.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs when Her Majesty's Government officially recognised the new Government of Sierra Leone.

I have nothing to add to the written reply given to the hon. and learned Member for Buckinghamshire, South (Mr. Ronald Bell), the hon. Member for Chigwell (Mr. Biggs-Davison), the hon. Member for Haltemprice (Mr. Wall) and the hon. Member for Liverpool, Wavertree (Mr. Tilney) on 25th April, 1967.—[Vol. 745, c. 246–7.]

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what is the situation of the Governor-General, and who represents the Queen in Sierra Leone at the present time?

The constitutional position is that Her Majesty the Queen is still Head of State in Sierra Leone, and the replacement of the Governor-General who, we understand, has now retired, is a matter between Her Majesty and the Government of Sierra Leone.

Will my right hon. Friend give serious consideration to using the Commonwealth Secretariat to effect the release of political prisoners, especially Siaka Stevens and other trade union leaders, before further recognition of the regime?

This is a matter for the Commonwealth Secretariat, over which we have no jurisdiction.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what information he has about the latest effects of sanctions on the economy of Rhodesia; and if he will make a statement.

I have nothing to add to the reply which I gave on 18th April to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Kingston upon Hull, West (Mr. James Johnson).—[Vol. 745, c. 59–60.]

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that he is pursuing a completely sterile and futile policy? News coming from Rhodesia indicates that there is no possibility of any alternatve Government arising. When will the right hon. Gentleman take some constructive measures towards resolving this dispute?

If the hon. Gentleman's view is correct, he should be happy and gratified about it, but it is not correct. In fact, sanctions are biting pretty deeply.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that economic sanctions will be politically ineffective unless some action can be taken to stop the South African Government from helping the Rhodesian economy by supplying oil and taking tobacco? Will he undertake to take diplomatic or any other necessary action to secure politically effective action?

One of the main activities of Her Majesty's Government and many other governments is to stop breaches in the sanctions wall, which we are trying to do with some success.

Would the right hon. Gentleman consider extending these sanctions to Sierra Leone, where the position appears to be indistinguishable?

The position is, in fact, easily distinguishable, in that Sierra Leone is an independent Commonwealth country, whereas Rhodesia is not.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs whether he is aware that Mr. Smith has set up a constitutional commission to advise on a new constitution for Rhodesia; and what efforts the Government are now making to reopen negotiations.

This so-called commission has of course no legal standing at all. As we have repeatedly made clear, the British Government remain ready to reach a settlement through discussion and subsequent negotiation with a legal government in Rhodesia.

As it is now clear that we face either a long economic war of attrition or the escalation of sanctions by extension to other countries in Southern Africa, will the right hon. Gentleman not say that he will make some approach to Rhodesia for continued conversations? Has he had any approach from the Governor?

The initiative so far taken, for instance, on the "Tiger", was taken by Her Majesty's Government, and the House and the world know what happened as a result. It is not for us to continue to make these advances and initiate new discussions until there is a clear indication that the Rhodesians will return to the rule of law.

As it is clear that nobody will attempt to force South Africa to play as some of the Secretary of State's hon. Friends wish, is it not time that the Government made an agonising reappraisal of their policy towards Rhodesia?

No, Sir. I think that the existing policy—the policy of the Commonwealth as a whole—is attaining, albeit slowly, the results which we require.

Would my right hon. Friend not agree that the activities of Smith and these rebels in Rhodesia are a direct affront and insult to the Crown and constitution of this country, which hon. Members opposite so often like to quote when it suits their purposes—particularly the Crown? Is it not time that we took the attitude which they suggest and protected the vital constitution of this country in a more forceful manner?

If by "a more forceful manner" my hon. Friend means the use of force, the British Government's position has been stated on many occasions. Anyone who sets a match to that part of Africa could not possibly forecast what would happen.

Has any approach been made by the Governor or any advice received from him since the breakdown of the "Tiger" talks?

The hon. Gentleman will be aware that we are in continued communication with Her Majesty's representative, the legal Governor of Rhodesia. Once there is any move towards a return to legality, we should not hesitate to act.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs how much oil is at present entering Rhodesia from Portuguese East Africa and South Africa.

I have nothing to add to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member for Cardigan (Mr. Elystan Morgan) on 27th January, 1967.—[Vol. 740, c. 389.]

Would my right hon. Friend undertake to ensure that the pipeline carrying oil from Mozambique to Rhodesia will not fall into the hands of those who are willing to breach the sanctions laid down by the United Nations Organisation? What diplomatic or other activity is now going on to stop the current supply of oil from South Africa and Portugal?

I have answered this question before. The House is aware, of course, that Rhodesia is getting petrol from Mozambique and South Africa—limited quantities, at a very high cost. On the question of methods by which we can stop it or some of it, consideration is always being given to this by my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary and myself and we do not fail to take any action which would result in a lessening of the supply of this product.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what steps he is taking to establish contact with the Rhodesian Constitutional Association and other bodies representing moderate opinion in Rhodesia.

I naturally make every effort to keep informed of all shades of opinion in Rhodesia, including the views of the Rhodesia Constitutional Association.

Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that the formation of the Rhodesian Constitutional Association is one of the most hopeful signs to have come out of that unhappy country for some time? As sanctions appear to be increasingly affecting the Rhodesian economy, will he do everything he can to encourage those of moderate views there who are seeking to persuade their fellow countrymen of the folly and futility of the policies being pursued by the Smith régime?

Yes, Sir. I am aware of the activities of the Rhodesian Constitutional Association. In fact, on the two or three occasions when I have been in Salisbury it has been my privilege and pleasure to meet many of the gentlemen who are members of this Association. I would be very happy on any occasion, if they are in London, to see them again or to assist them in any way I can to bring about the result which I think they desire.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what support those in Rhodesia seeking a return to legality are receiving from Her Majesty's Government.

The restoration of legality in Rhodesia is the objective of all the measures which Her Majesty's Government, with international cooperation, have taken.

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that the intentions of Her Majesty's Government are getting through to such people in Rhodesia in the face of censorship? Will he consider the publication of fresh literature for dissemination among people of this opinion?

I am prepared to consider anything that would get the views of Her Majesty's Government and of the people of Britain through to Rhodesia, but one ought not to assume that nothing is being done in this respect.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs on what principles High Commissioners are instructed to act in protection of United Kingdom citizens in Commonwealth countries.

The principles on which the practice of High Commissioners is based in relation to protection of United Kingdom citizens do not differ from those applicable in foreign countries. It is the duty of High Commissioners to watch over and, where appropriate in accordance with such principles and with Commonwealth practice, to intercede in the interests of their protection.

In view of the considerable concern about some recent incidents, is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there will be considerable satisfaction at his assurance that our High Commissioners have the same duty as Ambassadors in foreign countries?

Yes, Sir, it is precisely the same. It is the duty of our High Commissioners, on behalf of British nationals, to seek access in cases where they are charged with any criminal offences.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs whether he has considered the resolution on Fiji adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations on 12th December, 1966; and what action he proposes to take.

Yes, Sir. We voted against this resolution, and do not propose to take any further action on it.

But will the hon. Lady confirm that she will not allow such a visit?

The resolution, of course, covered various aspects of Fiji, but I can confirm that we are not prepared to accept the sub-committee's proposal for a delegation to visit Fiji.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs when he expects to initiate consultations with the Government of Singapore about the effects on their economy of the proposed reduction of British forces in the base by about 5,000 to 10,000 men.

The proposed reduction to which the hon. Member refers is one relating to British forces in the Far East as a whole. So far as Singapore is concerned, my right hon. Friend the Defence Secretary initiated these consultations on his recent visit there.

Would the right hon. Gentleman enlarge on that? Exactly how do we propose to make good in economic aid the shortfall in employment which will follow a reduction of the base in Singapore?

This was one of the reasons for my right hon. Friend's visit, to discuss with the Singapore Government the aid and means by which we would prevent the difficulties which might arise as a result of British withdrawal. These discussions are still going on.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Government of Zambia concerning the recent treatment of British subjects in that country.

Our High Commissioner in Lusaka has made representations to the Government of Zambia in individual cases wherever appropriate. In particular, the High Commissioner has taken all possible steps to ensure the correct treatment of those recently arrested under the Zambian Preservation of Public Security Regulations, 1964. If the hon. Gentleman will let me have details of any particular case or cases about which he is concerned, I shall be pleased to write to him.

Could the Minister say in how many cases such representations have been made in the last six months and whether Her Majesty's Government are content with the response received?

We have made representations on a number of occasions. We are not entirely satisfied, but we are continuing to make representations where appropriate.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what representations have now been made to him by independent and dependent sugar-producing Commonwealth countries to safeguard their interests under the Commonwealth Sugar Agreement in any negotiations for United Kingdom entry into the European Economic Community.

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Ealing, North (Mr. Molloy) on 25th April.—[Vol. 745, c. 247.]

In any Common Market negotiations—which, I hope, will develop very soon—will the right hon. Gentleman always bear in mind that we have a moral responsibility for all of these territories—and direct responsibility still for some of them—and that many of them would become tropical slums almost overnight but for the benefits of the Commonwealth Sugar Agreement or some equivalent of it?

Yes, Sir. I am well aware, and so are my colleagues in the Government, of the importance of the Commonwealth Sugar Agreement, not only to Commonwealth countries but to some of the dependent territories as well; and, of course, this is one of the main problems that will have to be safeguarded if Her Majesty's Government decide to negotiate for entry.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs whether he will give special financial encouragement to British people to attend the Canadian exhibition Expo 67 in Montreal in 1967–68.

No, Sir. If the Question relates to a possible increase in travel allowances, I have nothing to add to the reply of my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer to a Question on 20th January.—[Vol. 739, c. 139.]

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this great exhibition celebrating the centenary of Canada, which is the subject of a joint Motion on the Order Paper in the names of the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition and the Leader of the Liberal Party, will mean nothing if Her Majesty's Government do not allow British people to attend it, which clearly they cannot do on £50?

I am very well aware of the importance of this exhibition and of the high hopes of not only Canada but of the Commonwealth for its success. However, I cannot add to what my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer said in relation to the sterling allowance. There are undoubtedly other ways in which groups of people could arrange to travel rather more cheaply.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs (1) in view of the undertakings given by Her Majesty's Government that the Government of Hong Kong would introduce legislation to reduce the hours of work for women and children employed in the textile industry from 60 hours to 48 hours per week and the fact that these undertakings, have not yet been implemented, what steps he now proposes to take;

Proposals for amending legislation covering this in part have already been before the Executive Council and will be considered by the Labour Advisory Board on 11th May. If I may, I will write to my hon. Friend with the somewhat complicated details of this legislation.

Is my hon. Friend aware that, since I raised this matter last, protests have come from the textile unions concerned and that they are very agitated about the conditions in Hong Kong? In view of the widespread protests—indeed, world protests—that are being made about this matter, will she make speed the essence of action in this case?

The essential point to remember is that legislation is now on its way; and I am confident that the necessary stages will be gone through as speedily as the procedures permit. It is a fact that an eight-hour working day for women and young persons is already being worked by more than 70 per cent. of people in the cotton weaving industry and by 100 per cent. of people working in the spinning industry.

Is the Minister aware that the continued criticism of a number of people and of the Government of Hong Kong by hon. Gentlemen opposite is causing grave concern to the Colony? Will she confirm that working conditions in the Colony of Hong Kong are better than those in practically any other Far Eastern country?

There are, of course, different ways of looking at this. One can look at it in comparison with other countries of the Far East or in comparison with international standards generally. I am concerned to see that there should now be some steps taken by legislation; and I am glad to report that these are now beginning.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs why the British High Commissioner in Lusaka did not visit Mr. Cecil Swift, a Rhodesian British subject, in detention, on 13th April.

It has never been the normal practice for British High Commissioners in Commonwealth countries automatically to extend protection to Rhodesian citizens. However, in the circumstances of this case, the Zambian authorities have now been requested to afford access to Mr. Swift for one of the High Commissioner's officials in Lusaka.

Are Her Majesty's Government in any way responsible for Rhodesia or not? Why did the representative of the British High Commission not visit this Rhodesian when he visited the other British subjects who were in detention? Is it intended that the inference should be drawn that Her Majesty's Government now think that Rhodesia is a sovereign State responsible for its own citizens?

The answer is quite simple. A Rhodesia citizen is not a United Kingdom citizen, although he is regarded as a United Kingdom national in international law. We have the right, although not an obligation, to act in the interests of a Rhodesian citizen if the circumstances justify it, and that we are now doing.

On a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the Minister's reply and in view of the brutal treatment accorded this British subject—[Interruption.]—I beg to give notice that I shall seek leave to raise this matter on the Adjournment.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs how long the deposits of phosphate on Ocean Island will last at the current rate of excavation and export.

About 13 years.

Can the hon. Lady tell the House what assets will remain in the hands of the inhabitants of Ocean Island—the Banabans—when these immensely valuable deposits are exhausted? Will the Government keep in mind the fact that when the original royalty agreements were negotiated Her Majesty's Government undertook to act as the trustees for these islanders and establish a trust fund?

There is no reason why the Banabans should be any worse off than the other inhabitants of Fiji when the royalties cease. However, what really matters is what will happen at the end of the 13 years; and, from this point of view, an investigation into alternative types of employment is being made and, indeed, a survey is being conducted into the whole question.

asked the Sec retary of State for Commonwealth Affairs Whether he is aware that on 15th March a Mr. Elias Rusike made a broadcast to Rhodesia from Dar-es-Salaam on Radio Tanzania in which he incited Africans in Rhodesia to genocide; what other such broadcasts are being made; and what representations have been made, or other appropriate actions taken.

I have no information about the particular broadcast to which the hon. Member refers. Her Majesty's Government have made it clear on many occasions that they deplore incitement to violence from whatever quarter it may come.

Will the Commonwealth Office take steps to secure a text of the broadcast in which this gentleman exhorted the sons and daughters of Zimbabwe to take up arms and kill all whites in Rhodesia? And was this gentleman formerly employed by the British Information Services?

I do not know anything about his previous employment. The House will be aware that Her Majesty's Government have no control over the broadcasting facilities of independent countries.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Government of Uganda concerning the recent treatment of British subjects in that country.

I would refer the hon. and learned Member to the reply given to a Question on the same subject by the hon. Member for Dorset, South (Mr. Evelyn King) on 21st March, 1967. No incidents have been reported to me since that date.—[Vol. 743, c. 216.]

Is it correct, as recently reported, that a British couple were dragged from their car and made to dance in the roadway for an hour at bayonet point? Is it right that the British High Commissioner in Uganda warned British subjects of the danger of using certain roads, and has Her Majesty's Government recalled him at the request of the Uganda Government on that account?

There are three questions there. I will answer the last one first, if I may. We have not recalled Mr. Hunt at the request of the Uganda Government. He is still there. His tour of duty ends shortly, and he is returning to take up a new appointment. With regard to the other supplementary ques- tions, it is past history. There have been no incidents since the end of March, and I know that the Uganda Government deplored them as much as we did.

Will the hon. Gentleman just make clear to what extent he protests about incidents such as these? Is he not aware that so far his answers to these questions have given the impression that the Government really do not care about what happens to British subjects?

Well, the hon. Gentleman has a wrong impression, because we have made very strong representations, through our High Commissioner, when incidents have occurred, and I myself raised this matter with the President of Uganda when I was in that country.

Does it not begin to look more and more as though membership of the British Commonwealth was coming to be regarded as a licence to behave far worse to British people than to foreigners?

I think my hon. and learned Friend the Member for Northampton (Mr. Paget) has lost his sense of proportion. [Interruption.] There are 7,000 British nationals in Uganda; there have been 24 incidents in the past year—[HON. MEMBERS: "Oh."] I only wish that those with black skins in Rhodesia carrying British passports were as safe as those with white skins carrying British passports in Uganda.

But will the hon. Gentleman make it clear that when British High Commissioners stick up for the rights of the British citizens they will have the full support of the British Government?

When the High Commissioners defend the rights of British citizens they are doing so at the request and on the instructions of Her Majesty's Government.

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will seek to raise the matter on the Adjournment.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what arrangements have been made for local elections to be held on the islands of Nevis and Anguilla.

Her Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom are no longer responsible for the internal affairs of St. Kitts, Nevis and Anguilla. In courtesy to those hon. Members who discussed these matters with me before statehood was granted, I can convey my understanding of the present position. I understand that the Nevis Island Council was inaugurated on 20th April with nominated members, and that the offer of a nominated Council was also made to the people of Anguilla, but their reply had not been received before the Premier left St. Kitts on his present tour. Elections will, of course, be held later this year.

Will the Minister of State say exactly when the elections are likely to be held? Further, I understand that money is held by the central Government—when will this be allocated to the islands?

Some of the money has already been allocated, and the rest of the allocation is at present under discussion. Preparations for the elections, which are somewhat technical and complicated, are now under way.

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs when he now expects that St Vincent will receive associated state hood.

We shall discuss this with the Government of St. Vincent after the General Election to be held there on 19th May.

In the meanwhile, will the Eastern Caribbean Development Agency and Development Bank be able to go ahead with plans to help these islands?

This point will have to be taken into consideration after the election when we are considering the new constitutional position of St. Vincent.

asked the Prime Minister what consultations he has had with the United States President for a pause in the bombing of North Vietnam during the holiday in Vietnam in connection with the anniversary of Buddha's birth; and whether he has pressed for the pause to become permanent.

As I told my hon. Friend on 27th April, I have nothing to add to the answer I gave on the 20th April, to a Question by the hon. Member for Bury St. Edmunds (Mr. Eldon Griffiths).—[Vol. 745, c. 340; Vol. 745, c. 804.]

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the ever increasing anxiety felt in Britain over the day-to-day escalation of the war in Vietnam? Are we to urge any restraint at all on the United States, or remain silent while the whole of North Vietnam is devastated by American bombers? Is it not time the Government really acted on the matter?

As my hon. Friend knows, we are in continual touch with the United States Government, and all other Governments that are concerned. With regard to the anniversary of Buddha's birth, the Government of Vietnam have said that they are ready for discussions with North Vietnam representatives about a possible extension of the truce.

Will the Prime Minister consider that the bombing of Haiphong and the speech of General Westmoreland to Congress are factors which greatly increase the danger of Chinese involvement in the war, and will he summon the General Assembly to consider a stopping of the war, as President Eisenhower summoned the General Assembly and stopped the Suez War?

I am not responsible, of course, for speeches by American generals either to Congress or anyone else. On the question of the bombing of Haiphong, the position was made clear by my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary. On the question of Chinese involvement, this is one of the major considerations I have had in my mind all along.

asked the Prime Minister whether he is satisfied with the coordination between the President of the Board of Trade and the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs with regard to the observance of International Tourist Year; and if he will make a statement.

Yes, Sir.

Since the Government supported the United Nations proposal to designate 1967 as International Tourist Year, would it not now be appropriate if they were to amend the Selective Employment Tax and the investment grant arrangements so as to remove the handicaps which they impose on the British tourist industry?

I am not aware of any United Nations Resolution on the Selective Employment Tax, but the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question does raise pretty wide financial issues, and if he is successful in catching your eye, Mr. Speaker, in the later debate on the Finance Bill, he may be able to say a word about them then.

asked the Prime Minister if he is aware that areas whose population is increasing with exceptional rapidity due to town expansion schemes, are placed at a disadvantage in attracting industry due to Treasury, Board of Trade and Ministry of Economic Affairs policies, as well as the investment programmes of certain nationalised undertakings, which indiscriminately favour development districts; and if, while recognising the needs of the latter, he will direct Ministers not to neglect the former.

Although the development areas need to attract industry remains paramount, the requirements of the town expansion schemes are certainly not neglected. The Ministries concerned keep a close watch on their employment needs, which are taken fully into account in the operation of the industrial development certificate control.

Is the Prime Minister aware that in some expansion towns, especially in East Anglia, new houses are standing empty and young families are finding it very hard to make ends meet? Is not this a result of lack of coordination, whereby homes and population continue to go up but investment, whether private or public, in industry or amenities is not keeping pace?

I do not accept the suggestion about lack of coordination. My information is that the provision of jobs has been roughly in balance with the house-building programme. There are, I believe, 15 projects in the area the hon. Gentleman has in mind, but, certainly, if he has any specific problems about this, and will let me know, I will see that they are looked into.

Can my right hon. Friend give any assurance that dominant in the mind of the Government in this respect will be the needs of Swindon?

Yes, Sir. My answer referred to all towns and town expansions.

asked the Prime Minister whether he will ensure that the next National Plan provides for an increased amount, relatively and absolutely, of the gross national product being devoted to overseas aid and development.

We shall continue to make the maximum possible contribution to overseas aid in keeping with our economic situation.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that while the concept of a National Plan was very widely welcomed for enabling discussion of economic priorities, there was very much criticism of the smallness of our proposed contribution to overseas aid? Does he agree that the problem of the widening gap between poor and rich countries dwarfs our own economic preoccupations into insignificance?

I hope my hon. Friend will always express concern, as I always will, at any level of aid which is not the maximum, but I feel that what we are doing is reasonable in view of the present economic situation. We all want to increase it, but it is right to keep this in perspective, and in last year's report of the Development Assistance Committee on the aid programme of donor countries we appeared as one of the four countries which had consistently reached or exceeded the 1 per cent. target of 1962 to 1965, the others being France, Belgium and Portugal.

Will the Prime Minister do what he can to ensure that the next National Plan will not be like the last, a brown study with purple patches, green in judgment yet red all over?

I would not attempt, not having spent quite so late last night polishing up an answer to that question, to compete with the colourful nature of the hon. Member's observations.

asked the Prime Minister if he will now propose the formation of a Commonwealth Peace Mission to help to resolve the Aden situation.

No, sir. I believe that an international contribution to the solution of this problem can best be sought in the United Nadons.

How much longer is the Prime Minister going to allow the Aden situation to deteriorate into chaos? Has the Prime Minister not got a clear duty to humanity to restore order, and to restore order now?

I have nothing to add to what was said in the recent debate initiated by right hon. Members opposite. As the hon. Member will know, Lord Shackleton is at present in this country reporting to my right hon. Friend. When there is anything further to say to the House, of course, it will be said.

In the light of a deteriorating situation in Aden and the widespread reports that Lord Shackleton is returning with new proposals for Aden, can we have an assurance that the Government will make a statement on Aden before we rise for the Recess?

I said that as soon as anything can be said to the House it will be. I should not like to put a date on it. The whole House is deeply concerned about the Aden situation, although two views have been expressed in debate about where the original responsibility lay. What now matters is the present and the future.

Arising out of his reply, can my right hon. Friend say what continuing role he envisages for the United Nations special mission on Aden?

A very important one. We have made clear that despite the difficulties which arose we believe the United Nations has a role of central importance in this matter.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that some ex-Servicemen who have only recently come back from Aden state quite emphatically that the situation is not half as acute as hon. Members opposite are attempting to allege?

I am aware, of course, of a number of statements which have been made, not least in this House, about where responsibility lies.

Is the Prime Minister quite satisfied that no danger exists to the wives and children of personnel serving in Aden and that it is adequate to ensure that they are all brought home by July, or should they not be brought home sooner than that?

Everything possible is being done in these difficult circumstances to guarantee their safety. There is no change in the plans which have been announced for bringing them home.

While the Prime Minister may argue about where the responsibility for the past lies, is he quite clear that responsibility for settling this matter now rests with him?

Yes, Sir. I have made clear that the responsibility now lies with us. It is a pity that in this, as in a few other matters, it did not lie with us earlier. Then it would not have been quite—[Interruption.]

asked the Prime Minister why it has been decided that the Building Research Station should be transferred to the Minister of Public Building and Works; and what proposals he has to safeguard the independence of this scientific establishment in its new administrative setting.

I would refer my hon. Friend to the Answer I gave on 20th April to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Bethnal Green (Mr. Hilton). Detailed arrangements for the future of the Station and its work are being prepared by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Public Building and Works and he will, I know, wish to make a further statement to the House in due course.—[Vol. 745, c. 152.]

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there are important research projects now being held up, some of which have important export potential, because there are no administrative or financial decisions being made in the interim period between now and 1st July when the transfer takes place? This is an intolerable situation. Will he look into it personally?

I am certainly not aware that anything is being held up by the conditions of the transfer. The transfer, on which I know my hon. Friend has views, was one on which a lot of time was spent, and it is a very finely balanced argument. I think it right that this Building Research Station should be sited within the Department which has the greatest call on its work and which is involved in the future work and research activities of the station.

Does the Prime Minister recognise that the confidence of the industry is somewhat shaken by what happened to the National Building Agency? Will he ensure that some weight is put behind the Minister of Public Building and Works to ensure that this station does not go over to the Ministry of Housing and Local Government?

The Building Research Station has had a great reputation for many years. I remember being very much associated with it more than 20 years ago. We all know its high standard. I thought it would have more authority if it came under the responsibility of the Minister charged with responsibility for building activities. There is no question of transferring it to the Ministry of Housing and Local Government.

asked the Prime Minister whether, in considering whether the Government should apply to join the European Economic Community, he will take account of the fact that several African Commonwealth countries are negotiating for associate status.

Yes, Sir. This is one of the many considerations relevant to the Government's decision.

Since this Question emphasises that we, like the other countries when they entered the Six, have special problems, will the Prime Minister make clear when he makes a statement on this subject that our application for entry into the Community will be clear-cut and straightforward and not accompanied by qualifications emphasising our particular problems?

I think my right hon. Friend will probably wish to wait for a statement which I hope to make later this afternoon. Certainly in regard to Commonwealth countries all of us are aware of what was done by the founding members of the Community for African and other countries associated with them, and all of us want to regard that as the pattern for the future.

Will my right hon. Friend take also into consideration the fact that a very substantial number of people in this country are against it?

All relevant questions have been taken into consideration, but between now and 3·30 I doubt whether I shall make many changes in the statement I am likely to be making.

To ask the Prime Minister, whether he is now in a position to announce the Government's decision regarding an application for Great Britain's entry into the European Economic Community.

I will await the Prime Minister's statement in a minute's time.