§ 39. Sir Richard Aclandasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations whether he intends to send a judicial or other commission of inquiry to Basutoland to investigate the general situation which has led, amongst other things, to a number of ritual murders.
§ The Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations (Mr. Philip Noel- Baker)I agree with my hon. Friend that an inquiry into the sociological and other causes of ritual murders in Basutoland is now required, and I am, in fact, already considering with the High Commissioner how this can best be done. As at present advised, I am inclined to doubt whether a judicial or other large and formal commission of inquiry would be the wisest plan.
§ Mr. DribergWhen my right hon. Friend says that, will he bear in mind the fact that some men are apparently under sentence of death and awaiting execution?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerYes. There are other Questions about that on the Order Paper.