HC Deb 11 June 1959 vol 606 c1159
16. Mr. J. Johnson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what proposals the Protectorate Government of Northern Rhodesia and Nyasaland have in mind for more self-government in the African townships.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

In Nyasaland there are no townships which can be described as "African townships," with the possible exception of Soche, which is a high density residential area adjoining the Blantyre-Limbe township. Soche is in its early development stage and is, in consequence, under Central Government control through a nominated local authority. The local authority includes two African members. In Northern Rhodesia, African townships are already self-governing. For African housing areas within local authority areas, area boards and African affairs committees, both with African members, are now being established.

Mr. Johnson

Does not the right hon. Gentleman know that these so-called committees are merely advisory councils, usually with a European commissioner sitting as chairman, and that they have no power in a real sense? Would it not be better to give them power since, like Europeans, the Africans need some apprenticeship in local government so as to fit them to take part in national affairs?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

This is a big step forward which I hope will be successful. I must point out to the hon. Gentleman that both committees and boards can have extra powers delegated to them by the authorities.

Mr. Johnson

But they are not delegated to them.

Forward to