§ 27. Mr. Brockwayasked the Lord Privy Seal what conclusions have been reached in the discussions between Her Majesty's Government and the Government of the Republic of South Africa regarding the future relations between the High Commission Territories and the Republic, particularly as they affect the customs control of publications addressed to the protectorates.
§ Mr. P. ThomasThe chief aspects of future relations between the High Commission Territories and the Republic of South Africa have already been settled. Arrangements in respect of nationality are set out in the South Africa Act, 1962. Temporary arrangements have been made to cover movement of persons between the Territories and the Republic up to 1st January, 1963. Discussions on other aspects of future relations are in progress. Under the customs union between the Territories and South Africa the South African Customs authorities examine all material on entry for the purpose of levying duty, part of which accrues to the Territories. If the 429 South African authorities were to impound as undesirable material consigned to the Territories we should certainly make representation for its release.
§ Mr. BrockwayI thank the hon. Gentleman for that reply. If I draw his attention to the fact that publications which are permitted in British Colonial and Protectorate Territories have been confiscated by the Customs of the Republic of South Africa when addressed to our Protectorates, will he take up the matter?
§ Mr. ThomasYes. I know of only one case and that concerned a periodical, Africa South in Exile. I do not know whether that is the case to which the hon. Gentleman is referring, but the Basutoland authorities were asked to investigate the alleged incident and they reported that on 29th June the South African Commissioner of Customs and Excise admitted wrongful seizure of 400 copies of Africa South in Exile and informed the consignee that the package had been released to be sent to him.