HC Deb 02 November 1937 vol 328 cc703-4
4. Mr. Mander

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he has been informed of, and is in a position to publish, the policy of the Government and Parliament of the Union of South Africa towards the natives living within the Protectorates?

Marquess of Hartington

As the hon. Member is aware, the responsibility for the administration of the Territories rests, at present, with His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom. If he has in mind the system which would be adopted in the event of the transfer of the High Commission Territories to the Union, this is set out in the Schedule to the South Africa Act, 1909. I have no reason to think that the Union Government would wish to propose any departure from the general scheme of administration outlined in the Schedule.

Mr. Mander

May I take it that these Protectorates are not that part of the British Empire in Africa which the Union Government would be willing to hand over to Germany?

Marquess of Hartington

I do not think that arises out of the question on the Paper.

Colonel Wedgwood

May I ask why the Noble Lord emphasised the words at present"?