HC Deb 24 July 1958 vol 592 c661
26. Mr. Brockway

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what are the provisions of the Entry and Residence Proclamation issued by the High Commissioner for Bechuanaland.

Mr. Alport

I assume that the hon. Member is referring to the Bechuanaland Protectorate African Immigration Proclamation, 1958, which was promulgated by the High Commissioner on 25th April. 1958. I am sending him a copy of this Proclamation.

Mr. Brockway

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this Proclamation in Bechuanaland is similar to the one in Basutoland? Does he recollect that a year ago the Union of South Africa asked that two Basuto residents who had been charged at the treason trials should be extradited? Although that request was refused, is not it the case that there were then negotiations which have led to this measure, which would require the Protectorates to return any person who is demanded by the South African Government?

Mr. Alport

The hon. Gentleman is raising a different question, but as far as there are differences between the two Proclamations they are differences in detail, and I shall be glad to explain those to the hon. Gentleman on paper. I think there is evidence in the supplementary question that it will be valuable to us both if I send the hon. Gentleman a comment on the article which appeared in the New Statesman not long ago.