§ 48. Mr. Evelyn Kingasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations whether he is aware of the expulsion of the Daily Telegraph correspondent from Nigeria; and whether he will make representations to the Government of Nigeria.
§ The Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations (Mr. Arthur Bottomley)I am aware of the deportation of Mr. David Loshak by the Nigerian authorities. He has been declared a prohibited immigrant. Mr. Loshak has publicly stated that the Nigerian authorities treated him with every courtesy and consideration, that he was allowed to communicate with our High Commissioner, and that he was given ample time to pack his belongings.
The British Government accept the view that other Commonwealth Governments have the right to expel citizens of other Commonwealth countries in accordance with their own law, though Governments should not abuse this right by proceedings arbitrarily. Whilst I regret the action taken, I do not propose to make further representations in this case.
§ Mr. KingIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that since this happening the correspondent of the Observer and Guardian has also been expelled? Will the right hon. Gentleman seek to establish the principle that aid to Commonwealth countries must depend upon the freedom of the British Press to report in any country the truth as they see it?
§ Mr. BottomleyWith regard to the two journalists to whom the hon. Gentleman referred, I have requested our High Commissioner to make strong recommendations against their expulsion, and I am awaiting a reply.
§ Mr. SpeakerSir Geoffrey de Freitas.
§ Sir G. de FreitasMr. Speaker, I rose earlier to a ask a question, but in view of the answer to that supplementary question I have nothing to add.