HC Deb 29 July 1931 vol 255 cc2279-80
51. Mr. HORRABIN

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether the Government has come to any decision as to an inquiry into the conditions of the Masarwa tribe of Bechuanaland; what is the name of the commissioner appointed; and what are the terms of reference?

The SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Mr. J. H. Thomas)

Yes, Sir. Mr. E. S. B. Tagart, C.B.E., formerly Secretary for Native Affairs, Northern Rhodesia, has been appointed by the High Commissioner for South Africa to conduct an inquiry into the position of the Masarwa in the Bechuanaland Protectorate, and the inquiry is now in progress. I have not yet received from the High Commissioner the text of the terms of reference.

Mr. HORRABIN

Can my right hon. Friend say whether the name of Mr. W. Ballinger was considered for this commission, and, if so, what is the reason that he was not appointed?

Mr. THOMAS

If he was considered, it is most undesirable to give any reason. A number of applicants were considered for the position, but it would be very undesirable to mention their names. I do not oven remember the name mentioned by the hon. Gentleman.