HC Deb 12 June 1958 vol 589 cc382-3
2. Mr. Brockway

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what arrangements have been made for negotiations between the Government of the Union of South Africa, the High Commissioner, and the Basutoland National Council regarding the repatriation of Basutos from the Union to Basutoland.

Commander Noble

In 1957 the Union Government stated their intention to take action against leaders of certain unruly gangs by declaring as undesirable inhabitants of the Union, and deporting to Basutoland, those who belong to Basutoland. The legal requirements for residence in and deportation from the Union are a matter for the Union legislature. No question therefore arose of negotiations between the High Commissioner and the Union Government, but the High Commissioner was assured that he would be given prior information of all proposed deportations to Basutoland. On 21st April, 1958, the Basutoland Entry and Residence Proclamation, 1958, was promulgated by the High Commissioner, after full consultation with the Basutoland National Council. This Proclamation regulates entry into Basutoland.

Mr. Brockway

While thanking the right hon. and gallant Gentleman for that detailed Answer, may I ask whether it is a fact that there are two aspects to this matter? One is that Basutos were concerned in disturbances, but the other, and much more serious, is the requirement now for every Basuto in an urban area to receive a permit, and the fact that there is power to deport him within three days when that permit is refused. In these circumstances, will the Government do something to protect the Basutos who are affected?

Commander Noble

Her Majesty's Government, of course, are giving very serious consideration to this problem, but what the hon. Member raises is rather a different question. There is no reason to suppose that the Union authorities will fail to give the High Commissioner in advance the names of Africans from the Territories whom they propose to declare undesirable inhabitants of the Union. A list of such names is expected shortly.