HC Deb 02 July 1928 vol 219 cc955-6
18. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether, seeing that the property qualification for the franchise in Southern Rhodesia has been raised from £150 to £500, His Majesty's Government has considered the question whether this involves discrimination against native owners of house property; and, if so, what action it is proposed to take?

Mr. AMERY

The provision in the Southern Rhodesia Electoral Bill raising the property qualification from £150 to £500 would apply both to Europeans and natives. I find, however, that in the course of the Debate on the Second Reading of the Bill the Premier stated that he proposed to move an Amendment, if it was not moved by any other Member, reducing this qualification of £500 to the present qualification, but that the matter was entirely one for the Members of the House to decide. I have not yet heard what is the present position with regard to the Bill.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this decision affects the number of natives acquiring the vote in Rhodesia and that at present, with £150, it is possible for a handful of natives to get the vote, but, if it is raised to £500, no coloured man can get the vote?

Mr. AMERY

I quite realise that the high property qualification would diminish the number of natives eligible for the vote, but, at any rate, there is no racial discrimination at all.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is it not the right hon. Gentleman's duty, in looking after the interests of the natives of Rhodesia, to see that this apparently harmless alteration which would, in fact, seriously affect the position of the natives, is not made?

Mr. MACLEAN

Does this not show discrimination against the native by increasing the property qualification from £150 to £500?

Mr. AMERY

No, Sir. It is not an increase for natives only: it is an increase for all voters.

Mr. MACLEAN

Is it not showing discrimination against a section of the community who cannot raise the necessary sum?

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is it possible for the right hon. Gentleman to make representations, even at this late hour, to the Rhodesian Government, as this is very serious for the natives?

Mr. AMERY

I have to consider very carefully how far the terms under which I am justified in intervening in the affairs of a self-governing Colony like Rhodesia would include this particular matter.