HC Deb 07 July 1936 vol 314 cc1005-6
22. Mr. PALING

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs the nature of the new provision in the Southern Rhodesia Natives Registration Act which applies to the control and regulation of natives seeking employment in, or visiting, certain townships?

Mr. M. MacDONALD

I assume that the hon. Member refers to the new provision relating to the establishment of hostels. The effect of this is that if and when the Government erects, equips and maintains a hostel in any township for the accommodation of natives seeking employment in or visiting the township, thereafter any native so visiting the township and wishing to stay a night shall (subject to certain exceptions) reside in the hostel.

Mr. PALING

Do any of these disabilities and regulations which are imposed on the natives apply to white people also?

Mr. MacDONALD

So far as this Act is concerned, they apply to the natives.

Mr. PALING

How many of these proclaimed areas are there in the territory?

Mr. MacDONALD

I should require notice of that question.

Mr. T. JOHNSTON

Is this the same Measure that provides for licensed concubinage?

Mr. MacDONALD

I should require notice of that question also.

Mr. BELLENGER

Will these hostels be free to natives?