TNAG-0832-FCO40-1040-Future-of-the-Dependent-Territories-1979 — Page 113

Accustomed to the

by exercise of responsibility for.

But we shall not stand in the way of any territory

which wishes to move to independence however

doubtful we

Imately

GPS Wisdenyu

4. we shall ep

But

We are always prepared to consider whether

there is any alternative to independence, other

than the present colonial relationship, that might

be appropriate for certain territories which do not

desire full independence. We shall judge each

case on its merits. Qur preferred policy

Critone objective is to afford

fford our dependencie, the simple

choice between independencepr continued dependency.

I acknowledge that there may be territories for

which in the last resort it may be necessary to

contemplate association or integration with the UK or

another country. But such "association" would not

follow the form of relationship provided for under

the 1967 West Indies Act, an arrangement that I

wouldnot wish to repeat.

5. In furtherance of tin cesed policy

we shall continue to do all that we can to create

conditions in which independence becomes praeffendle

and locally acceptable. Igtukai su contoulignin frekattemaksakan

continue the steady pROCESS Political CUT:

where a territory has made a clear decision tagore

provide oppe font to independence we shall be consider the

need for locally elected Ministers to begem:

gain experience

familiar with all aspects the administration

"the" courfemyer

One should be morre and Zready to comit

constitutional changes which are the normal precursorA

of full independence.

[/6.