HC Deb 27 July 1950 vol 478 cc657-8
3. Mr. Aitken

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations if he can now say what steps he proposes to take to approach the Government of South Africa with regard to the neglected state of the cemeteries and graves of Imperial troops who died in the South African war; and in view of the undertaking given by the Government of that country many years ago that these cemeteries and graves would be looked after and maintained.

The Prime Minister

A communication has been sent to the United Kingdom High Commissioner in the Union of South Africa on this matter.

Mr. Aitken

Will the Prime Minister say why the Commonwealth authorities have not dealt with this matter before, in view of the many representations made by the South African War Veterans Association, and other interested parties?

The Prime Minister

Because consideration had to be given to exactly where the responsibility lay in this matter.