asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what are his plans for a further constitutional conference to agree a new relationship between Aden and the Federation of South Arabia.

I would refer the right hon. Member to my reply on 12th November and would only add that I am leaving for Aden this afternoon to study the problem on the spot.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that we very much welcome his decision to go to Aden and the Federation to see things for himself before he reaches any conclusions? I would not want to embarass him at this stage with questions, but may I have an assurance that he will seek permission to make a statement to the House on his return?

I am most grateful to the right hon. Gentleman for what he has said, and I gladly agree to his suggestion.