TNAG-1001-FCO40-1237-Future-of-the-Dependent-Territories-including--Report-of-the-1981 — Page 94

In the same vein, I wish publicly to thank the Secretary-

General of the Commonwealth Secretariat for making available

to us assistance of the highest calibre and to acknowledge this contribution, in particular that of Dr Abass Bundu.

I have expressed satisfaction at our common achievement, and here, let me not leave the impression that the Constitution for the independent Belize leaves earth-shaking paths in development of Constitutional institutions, for we have been well served by the Constitutional experience of other countries. and emerge with a harmonious amalgamation of the wisdom of many generations and the long apprenticeship served by Belize. It is gratifying to recall that we have also enjoyed the benefit of submissions made to this Conference by many organisations

in Belize. We have considered them all, and pruned away the

chaff and accepted the kernel.

Yet, Mr Chairman, to pretend that this is the end of the Belizean struggle for independence is to deceive ourselves. True, it represents a giant step forward towards that illusive but cherished day. True, we move with the support of the international community and in step with the spirit and letter

of its pronouncements. Comforting were your assurances that, come what may, there can be no question of Her Majesty's Government abandoning its rightful responsibilities for the

security of Belize. Yet there are many forces at work which wish, even at this late hour, to forestall the rightful aspirations of the Belizean people for independence.

There remains much to be done, therefore, before we can

celebrate the fulfilment of our destiny. We shall not be deterred, for the peace and prosperity of the future nation. of Belize is too great a goal to be compromised. (Applause)

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