HC Deb 20 October 1954 vol 531 cc1204-5
37. Sir L. Plummer

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies on what ground the Lusaka Municipal Board imposes a night pass system for Africans; and whether this practice has been confirmed by the Northern Rhodesian Government.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

The night pass system, which operates in Lusaka with the support of the great majority of law-abiding citizens, is intended to help in protecting the public from crime; the regulations at present in force were made by the Governor in Council.

Sir L. Plummer

In view of the fact that within a day or two the first anniversary of the Federation will be celebrated, would it not be a good thing to suggest to the Governor that it would be a fitting thing to remove this indignity to Africans?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I cannot do better than remind the hon. Gentleman of what was said by an African when the Southern Provinces African Provincial Council was debating the motion, which they carried by 10 votes to two, with no abstentions: "A person who does not like being asked for a pass is no good."

Mr. F. M. Bennett

Is my right hon. Friend aware that in Ethiopia, where there is no European domination whatsoever, a similar so-called indignity is perpetrated by the entirely free Ethiopian Government on its African citizens?

Mr. J. Dugdale

May I ask whether the view which the right hon. Gentleman has just quoted is shared by himself?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Certainly, if the conditions are as they are in Lusaka. In the case of night offences, an overwhelming majority of law-abiding citizens—and this goes for Africans, naturally—are in favour of this proposal.