§ 5. Mr. Brockwayasked the Minister of State for Commonwealth Relations what decisions have been reached regarding the control of mineral rights in Bechuanaland, the leasing of these rights to a private company, the training of Africans in skilled crafts, trade union organisation, and the provisions of housing estates with schools and clinics in the vicinity of the mines.
§ Mr. AlportAs the Answer to the hon. Member's five questions is inevitably detailed and lengthy, I will with permission circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
§ Mr. BrockwayWhy was this agreement kept secret? Will the Minister do his utmost to prevent the occurrence in Bechuanaland of a repetition of the deplorable labour conditions in Johannesburg, and give the Africans the opportunity to learn skilled trades?
§ Mr. AlportThe hon. Member will be aware that this agreement is one between the company concerned and the Bamangwato tribe. It is, therefore, in the interests of the two partners—if I may use that expression, which I regard as a proper and appropriate one—that the extent 566 of the agreement should not be published until they themselves have completed their negotiations.
Mr. Creech JonesCan the hon. Gentleman say whether the revenues and funds arising from this concession will go to the Protectorate exchequer, or will their use be limited to the tribe which is responsible for the agreement?
§ Mr. AlportI appreciate the point to which the hon. Member is referring, but before answering it I would prefer to see the final negotiations completed between the tribe and the company.
Following is the Answer:No new decisions have been reached about the control of mineral rights in the Bechuanaland Protectorate, which remains as laid down in Chapter 96 of the Laws, as amended. A number of prospecting and mineral grants have been made in accordance with the law.The Bechuanaland Protectorate Government is opening an African Trade School at Gaberones for up to 120 pupils. Initially, the courses will be limited to carpentry, motor maintenance and building. No courses in mining skills are envisaged in the immediate future because there has not yet been sufficient mining development in the Territory to warrant it.Establishment of trade unions is regulated by Chapter 124 of the Laws, as amended.Only two small mines at present exist. Most African employees live at home, but those who live on these mines are housed in accordance with the Mining Health Proclamation (Chapter 99 of the Laws), which provides, under Section 16, for the accommodation and treatment of the sick. Since both mines are situated in tribal areas, tribal schools are easily accessible to the children of employees.