London Talks For Independence Begins

London Talks For Independence Begins

Back To The Past-Today
13 January 1947 

British-Burmese negotiations for Burma's independence began today in London, after one-year long preparations. 
The general statement by the Burma Delegation at the 15 January session indicated it was satisfied with the British policy that Frontier Areas should be integrated with Burma Proper into one whole system. 

The Shans, on the other hand, had sent a telegram, on 30 December, to remind HM Government that the Burmese delegation did not represent them and to ask the latter that they be invited separately. 

Altogether 10 sessions were held from 13-27 January between the two sides. 

The British were represented by 1. Sir Stafford Cripps, President of the Board of Trade 2. A.V. Alexander, Minister for Defense 3. Ellen Loilkinson, Minister for Education 4. Earl of Listowel, Postmaster-General 5. Sir Gilbert Laithwaite, Deputy Under-Secretary of State for Burma On the Burmese side, there were 1. Gen Aung San 2. Thakin Mya 3. Thakin Ba Sein 4. U Tin Htut 5. U Kyaw Nyein 6. Thakin Chit 7. Galon U Saw 8. U Ba Yin (Meikthila) 9. U Ba Pay 
Gen Aung San and most of the delegates arrived in London on 9 January.