§ 9. Mr. OSWALD LEWISasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs if his attention has been called to the declaration made by General Hertzog to the effect that the time is ripe for the transference of the native Protectorates of Bechuanaland, Basutoland and Swaziland to the South African Government; and if he will intimate to the South African Government that the British Government have no intention of parting with the control of these territories?
Mr. J. H. THOMASI made a full statement yesterday, in reply to the hon. Member for Rothwell (Mr. Lunn), as to the position in this matter maintained 139 by successive United Kingdom Governments, including the present Government. I am not able to add anything to that statement.
§ Mr. LEWISCan the right hon. Gentleman now give the House a clear undertaking that these territories will not be transferred to the Union of South Africa unless and until the majority of the native inhabitants have expressed themselves in favour of that policy?
Mr. THOMASI have nothing to add to the statement that I made yesterday. As I explained in that statement, I am expecting a communication from the Prime Minister of South Africa. It would be discourteous to anticipate that communication, and I do not propose to do so.
§ Mr. MACQUISTENIs it not necessary to reassure these people, who have been carrying on the Government of these Protectorates very well? It must be very disturbing to them. There is no question but that these people are entitled to govern themselves.
Mr. THOMASI do not know whether the hon. and learned Gentleman was present yesterday. If so, he will remember that the object of making that full statement was to allay any feeling that might arise.