§ 30. Mr. Fenner Brockwayasked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what steps are being taken towards educational, health, social, economic, and political progress in Bechuanaland, Basutoland, and Swaziland.
§ Mr. Dodds-ParkerI would refer the hon. Member to the reports on the three Territories in the Colonial Report series for information about progress under the first four heads. A programme for substantial further development is under consideration. As regards the last item, we are seeking to develop instruments of local government based on indigenous institutions, and steady progress is being made.
§ Mr. BrockwayWill the hon. Gentleman proceed with the utmost vigour with these reforms? Are they not the most effective way to influence the position in the Union of South Africa, where the African population are denied so many of these rights?
§ Mr. Dodds-ParkerMy duties have nothing to do with what happens in the Union of South Africa. I will try to carry out my duties with regard to the Territories to the best of my ability.
§ Mr. AlportIs my hon. Friend aware of the very great satisfaction at the progress which has been made in the social and economic government of these three Territories, which stands out in remarkable contrast to the neglect which they suffered when the party opposite were in office?
§ Mr. J. JohnsonIs the Minister aware that the more we do—and, goodness knows, there is a lot to be done—in these Territories, the less cause there is for people like Malan and his successors to clamour for annexation to the Union?
§ Mr. Dodds-ParkerWhat Her Majesty's Government will do will have regard to the merits of the case without reference to anything else.