HC Deb 04 November 1958 vol 594 cc760-2
34. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies to what extent subversion continues in the Aden Protectorate; who has been appointed to replace the Sultan of Lahej; what progress has been made in respect of the proposed Federation of Protectorate territories; and how far consideration has been given to the proposal to ask a United Nations or other independent body to make inquiries on the extent of a desire of the tribes in the Protectorate for union with the Yemen.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Subversion of Aden Protectorate tribesmen by the Yemeni authorities still continues, but has recently been less successful. Indeed, a number of dissidents, particularly those of Lahej, have recently returned to their allegiance

The electoral college of Lahej have not yet proceeded to the election of a new Sultan.

Progress has been made in the preparatory work for the Federation, and the rulers will shortly be discussing with the Governor details of the constitution and other practical arrangements.

No desire for union with the Yemen has been expressed by any Protectorate tribes; the kind of inquiry suggested by the hon. Member would serve no useful purpose, and be strongly resisted by the Rulers and people of the Protectorate.

Mr. Sorensen

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman. first, whether there is lighting still taking place along the frontier, and secondly, is it not true that in fact there is subversion in the Protectorate, which is an indication that some, maybe a minority, in the Protectorate desire some kind of union with the Yemen? In those circumstances, would not it be better to try to publicise the facts of that request? In view of incidents in Aden in the last two or three days, there is evidence of subversion in Aden itself, and would he, therefore, say a word on that?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

There is no desire whatever among the people of the Protectorate for union with the Yemen. No inquiry is necessary to establish that fact. In regard to the situation in Aden, I answered a Question yesterday. A good deal of the trouble in Aden comes from immigrant Yemeni workers. I am glad to say that considerable numbers of them have been expelled yesterday to the Yemen.

Mr. Sorensen

Has not the right hon. Gentleman forgotten to answer my first supplementary question about fighting along the frontier?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I am sorry. I am glad to say that the frontier is comparatively tranquil at the moment.