HC Deb 07 July 1936 vol 314 cc1004-5
19. Mr. D. GRENFELL

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether, before accepting the offer of £35,000 from the Union Government for the promotion of development schemes in the South African Protectorates, the High Commissioner consulted the resident commissioners of the respective, territories as to the probable effect of this policy on native opinion; and whether they were instructed to take any steps in the matter?

The SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Mr. Malcolm MacDonald)

Yes, Sir. The resident commissioners were consulted beforehand by the High Commissioner, and it was arranged that they should communicate a statement explaining and commending the proposals to the native authorities.

26. Mr. GRENFELL

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he can make any statement as to the communications between the acting High Commissioner for South Africa and the Prime Minister of the Union with regard to the Prime Minister's pronouncement on the South African Protectorates; and, if not, when he hopes to be in a position to do so?

Mr. MacDONALD

The acting High Commissioner is still in communication with General Hertzog on this matter. If the hon. Member will repeat his question next week I expect to be in a position to make a statement then.