HC Deb 12 July 1938 vol 338 c1101
31. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether, in reference to the possible transference of areas in South Africa to the Union of South Africa, he has made, or will make, direct inquiries of the native chiefs in the areas concerned with a view to ascertaining their own and the native opinion on the matter?

Lord Stanley

The position in regard to this matter remains as stated in my answer to the hon. Member's question on 14th June. When the memoranda by the Union Government are ready for issue it is contemplated that translations in the native languages should be made available in the territories. This will enable the chiefs and their people to judge what the position would be in the event of transfer.

Mr. Sorensen

Does that imply that steps will be taken to ascertain the opinion of the chiefs, and further, is the Noble Lord aware that many of these chiefs have expressed considerable dubiety concerning the possible transfer of these areas?

Lord Stanley

All that the chiefs will be asked to do is to consider documents and study the terms which the Union Government have in mind. There is at this juncture no question of formal consultation with the chiefs about transfer.