HC Deb 22 May 1958 vol 588 cc1485-6
25. Mr. Brockway

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what agreement has been made by the High Commissioner for the extension to Africans from the High Commission Territories of measures previously reserved for foreign natives, including an obligation to possess permits to remain in any urban or proclaimed area.

Mr. Alport

The Native Laws Further Amendment Act, 1957, of the Union of South Africa extended to Africans born in the High Commission Territories, with effect from 6th May, 1958, a requirement, already imposed on all other Africans except those born in the Union and South-West Africa, of written permission from the Secretary of Native Affairs to enter or remain in an urban or proclaimed area. The requirements applicable to persons resident in the Union are a matter for the Union legislature and the question of the High Commissioner's agreement did not arise.

Mr. Brockway

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the statement has been made in South Africa that this change was by agreement with the High Commissioner? Is the hon. Gentleman in a position to deny that? Is he also aware of the serious effect which this will have on thousands of people in the Protectorates, some of whom have lived in the Union for generations? If this is to be carried out, will the hon. Gentleman develop economic conditions in the Protectorates so that these people can obtain a livelihood?

Mr. Alport

I think the hon. Gentleman is sharing some of the misunderstanding which apparently has arisen about this piece of legislation. In a statement made in the House of Assembly on 14th June last year, the Minister responsible for native affairs said that the Union Government wanted to take action against leaders of unruly Basuto gangs in Union urban areas, and had assured the High Commissioner that he would be given prior information if it was decided to take action against an African from one of the Territories. This means that any reference to thousands of Africans is quite unrealistic. As far as accepting an African who is a native of one of the Territories is concerned, we could hardly object to repatriation in present circumstances.

Mr. J. Griffiths

While appreciating what the hon. Gentleman has said, and in view of the recent pronouncements during the election by Nationalist leaders, may I ask the hon. Gentleman to bear in mind that it is important that Her Majesty's Government and those responsible should remember the pledge by this House and should not take action that would give the people of these Protectorates the fear that we might let them down?

Mr. Alport

I think that the right hon. Gentleman knows as well as hon. Members generally that the position is as has been stated on numerous occasions in this House. I am certain that all concerned in South Africa are fully aware of that.

Mr. Dugdale

The hon. Gentleman has referred to action against unruly Basutos. May we know whether any action has in fact been taken?

Mr. Alport

If the hon. Gentleman will put down a Question, I will give him an answer.