HC Deb 03 April 1958 vol 585 cc1358-9
12. Mr. Stonehouse

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what action he intends to take in regard to the Orders under the Immunities and Privileges Act of the Federation of Rhodesia, which need to be passed in consultation with Her Majesty's Government before the Act can be implemented.

Mr. Alport

None, Sir. The making of the Orders necessary to implement the Immunities and Privileges Act, 1956, of the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland is a matter for the Government of the Federation, though the United Kingdom Government were asked for, and have given, specialist advice on certain technical aspects of the preparation of the Orders.

Mr. Stonehouse

Will the Minister confirm that this Act may fall within the special reserved powers of the Secretary of State, in view of the fact that, as far as Southern Rhodesia is concerned, it is clearly discriminatory against the great majority of the idigenous population? Further, can he say whether the representations from India in respect of this Act have been met?

Mr. Alport

I understand that the hon. Gentleman is referring to the Immunities and Privileges Act, which refers to diplomatic representations within the Federation, and I therefore do not think that his assumption is correct.

Mr. H. Hynd

Does the Minister's first reply mean that the relatively better position of the African and Indian population in Nyasaland is in danger from possible Orders issued by the majority in Southern Rhodesia?

Mr. Alport

No, I do not think that this particular legislation is relevant to that at all. This is an Act dealing with the responsibilities of the Federal Government, as I understand it, in relation to the diplomatic problems which it has now assumed as a result of its new status.

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