HC Deb 29 June 1961 vol 643 cc637-9
13. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what arrangements have now been made for the determination of a capital in Bechuanaland, and for the complete transfer of administration thereto.

15. Mr. Emery

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations whether he will make a statement on the moving of the capital of Bechuanaland.

Mr. Braine

The location at Mafeking of the administrative headquarters of the Bechuanaland Protectorate is a survival from earlier days, and it is the intention of Her Majesty's Government to move it into the Protectorate as soon as circumstances permit. But a number of practical problems are involved, particularly of water supply. Moreover, the cost, which will be substantial, needs to be considered with other claims on the finance available.

Mr. Sorensen

Does the hon. Gentleman agree that the transference of the capital into Bechuanaland is desirable at the earliest possible moment? Is it not incongruous and an affront to the dignity of Bechuanaland that it should meanwhile be administered from a place outside the country and, indeed, in a foreign country?

Mr. Braine

Yes, Sir; I agree, subject, of course, to the consideration that there are many claims upon available finance for the development of Bechuanaland. However, we are addressing ourselves to this question, and perhaps I can leave it there.

Mr. Emery

Does my hon. Friend realise how welcome this statement will be to many hundreds of thousands of loyal British subjects who have at last got an "in principle" decision from Her Majesty's Government? However, might I ask him what implementation the Minister has in mind for his welcome intention? Has he decided where the capital shall be moved to, and how quickly will he be able to carry out his intention?

Mr. Braine

A preliminary investigation of possible sites has recently been made, but it is clear from this that a more detailed survey is required. My right hon. Friend is considering, with the High Commissioner, how best this can be conducted. As to my hon. Friend's second point about when I shall be able to make a further statement, a thorough survey will have to be made with particular regard to water, and that will take some time, and I should not like to forecast a date. Thirdly, one site has been investigated, but, as I say, a great deal more information is required before we can make a final decision.

Mr. Emery

Is my hon. Friend consulting all the necessary people in Bechuanaland before this decision is made? It is essential that there should be complete consultation with the people about where their capital shall be.

Mr. Braine

Yes, Sir; that will be perhaps the most important consideration of all.

Mr. G. M. Thomson

In expediting the decision, will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind the desirability of moving the High Commission offices themselves into the High Commission Territories?

Mr. Braine

I will take note of what the hon. Gentleman says.