6. Mr. Driberģasked the Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs if he has considered the statement on the colour bar and racial discrimination issued by the Conference of Missionary Societies in Great Britain and Ireland and circulated to all hon. Members; and if he will endeavour to secure the observance of the principles therein outlined in Southern Rhodesia and in any other parts of His Majesty's Dominions in which current practice falls short of these principles.
§ Mr. Emrys-EvansSo far as self-governing territories are concerned, this is essentially a question of domestic jurisdiction. My Noble Friend is accordingly not in a position to take action in the sense suggested.
Mr. DriberģCannot the hon. Gentleman's Noble Friend at any rate communicate with, and make representations to, the authorities concerned?
§ Mr. Emrys-EvansNo, Sir, it would be very undesirable, from every point of view, to interfere with the internal affairs of the Dominions.
§ Mr. Emrys-EvansI did not hear what the hon. Gentleman asked me.
Mr. DriberģI asked whether the Minister at least endorsed the sentiments contained in this noble document?
§ Sir Alfred BeitIs it not the case that few, if any, of the signatories of this document have had recent experience in Southern Rhodesia and South Africa, and consequently are entirely ignorant of the more tolerant attitude which is growing up there?
Mr. DriberģIs not the hon. Member aware that that is quite misleading? Is it not the case that Dr. Broomfield, for one, has a close acquaintance with conditions in Africa?