HC Deb 05 May 1955 vol 540 cc1878-9
11. Mr. Fenner Brockway

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations if, in view of the termination of the original period of five years for the exclusion of Seretse Khama from Bechuanaland and the continued desire of the Bamangwato tribe that he shall return, he will now reconsider the decision that the banishment be made permanent.

Mr. Dodds-Parker

I have nothing to add to my reply to the hon. Member's Question on 16th December, 1954.

Mr. Brockway

How long is this scandal to continue? Does the hon. Gentleman not realise that the exclusion of Seretse Khama from Bechuanaland only on the ground that he married a white woman is an outrage to the moral conscience of this country?

Mr. Dodds-Parker

The hon. Gentleman should direct that criticism to his right hon. and hon. Friends who undertook this policy.

Mr. Awbery

But are not the present Government in a position to put the matter right and to allow Seretse Khama to return to his tribe?

Mr. Dodds-Parker

We have supported this decision and we have stated that this decision is final.

Mr. Brockway

Shame.