§ 70. Mr. Gallacherasked the Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether the Government still adheres to the policy announced by Mr. J. H. Thomas on 20th June, 1935, that no colonial territory would be handed over for incorporation within the Union of South Africa without prior consultation with and the consent of the native peoples in such territories.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs (Mr. Emrys-Evans)The statement made by Mr. Thomas on the occasion in question referred to the undertakings which had been given by His Majesty's Government in regard to the question of the transfer to the Union of South Africa of the government of the territories of Basutoland, the Bechuanaland Protectorate and Swaziland. These pledges which are set out in the aidememoire published in the Parliamentary 751 Paper Command 4948, were to the effect that the transfer of these territories should not take place until the inhabitants, both native and European, have been consulted and until Parliament has been given an opportunity of expressing its views. His Majesty's Government adhere to these pledges.
§ Mr. GallacherIs the Minister aware that, in view of the abominable terms that the coloured people get in the Union of South Africa, it is highly undesirable for any territory, under any condition, that is occupied by the ordinary African to be handed over to the Union?
§ Sir Alfred BeitHas the Union made any official request for this transfer?
§ Mr. Emrys-EvansNo, Sir.