HC Deb 01 June 1961 vol 641 cc402-3
14. Mr. J. Wells

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will give an assurance that South African Nationals who are British civil servants will be able to continue their employment without being compelled to apply for British nationality.

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Sir Edward Boyle)

Yes, for the time being; but their ultimate position will depend on whatever changes may be made in the British Nationality Act, 1948, or by other legislation, to deal with the situation arising from the Union of South Africa becoming a Republic outside the Commonwealth.

Mr. Wells

While I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his general remarks, may I point out that it is important that these very few people should be given an assurance that they may continue safely in their employment? In reply my hon. Friend said that ultimately it will depend on changes that may be made, but these people need an assurance that their jobs are safe.

Sir E. Boyle

I do not think that I can go beyond what I said in my original Answer. I think that is all the assurance one can give in present circumstances.

Mr. Storehouse

Is it not the case that we should expect primary loyalty to the United Kingdom?

Sir E. Boyle

I do not want to get too deeply involved in this. The point is that under present legislation aliens can be employed in the Civil Service only in a temporary capacity and subject to certain statutory limitations. Of course, we shall consider all these questions when considering what the ultimate position in connection with South Africa will be, but I do not think I can go beyond what I have said this afternoon.