HC Deb 28 June 1962 vol 661 c1329
1. Mr. Russell

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (Central African Office) how many chiefs now exercise administrative authority in Nyasaland; and if he is satisfied that their powers are adequate.

The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. R. A. Butler)

Authority is exercised by 152 chiefs, including 49 sub-chiefs. I consider that their powers are adequate having regard to the development of democratic local government.

Mr. Russell

Is it not a fact that some of the chiefs have been replaced by the Malawi Congress Party because they are in favour of federation? Can my right hon. Friend say how many have been replaced, and does he think that this is a good development in Nyasaland?

Mr. Butler

I could not give an answer to that without notice. I would be ready to answer it if it was put on the Order Paper. All I know is that authority is exercised by the number of chiefs I have mentioned, and in general I think that this is a good thing.