HC Deb 07 July 1959 vol 608 c1088
14. Mr. G. M. Thomson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what representations he has had from the Church of Scotland on the interference with their work in Nyasaland caused by the refusal of the Federal Government to allow the Rev. Tom Colvin to return to his post in Blantyre, Nyasaland; what reply he has made; and what steps he is taking to enable the work of the Church of Scotland to be carried on.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I received a letter from the General Secretary of the Foreign Mission Committee of the Church of Scotland, who also made similar representations to my noble Friend.

I have replied that the matter was one for the Federal authorities. I have now received a further letter which I am considering.

As regards the latter part of the Question, I hope the Church of Scotland will be able to make satisfactory arrangements for the replacement of Mr. Colvin.

Mr. Thomson

Is the Secretary of State aware that that is a most unsatisfactory and shocking reply? Is he aware that the Rev. Tom Colvin has a fine record of improving the social and educational services for the people of Nyasaland, on which so much hope for a decent future for that country depends? Can the Secretary of State say what assurances he has sought and obtained from the Federal Government that other Scottish missionaries shall be allowed to move freely between this country and the Protectorate when doing this splendid work in that country?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

This matter has already been thoroughly ventilated in the House and it has been made quite clear that the responsibility for declaring anybody a prohibited immigrant does not rest with me or with my right hon. and noble Friend, but with the Government of the Federation.