HC Deb 30 July 1953 vol 518 cc180-1W
50. Mr. Fenner Brockway

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations on what grounds Mr. Manyaphiri, a district headman at Mahalapye, Mr. Apele, a district headman at Sebinas, Mr. Ramasamo, a district headman at Sefare and Mr. Kediretsvve, a district headman at Palpye, all in Bechuanaland, have been dismissed.

Mr. J. Foster

These persons are not and never were hereditary headmen in the areas mentioned. They were, however, "Chief's representatives" in those areas until their dismissal on 30th May, 1952, after they had sought deliberately, by means to which I made reference in my statement of 10th June last year, to make impossible the communication of the Government's views to the tribe assembled in Kgotla. They have exercised no official authority since that date.

51. Mr. Fenner Brockway

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations on what grounds Mr. Radipitse, Headman of Tonota Village, Bechuanaland, has been arrested.

Mr. J. Foster

Mr. Radipitsi of Tonota has not been arrested nor has any charge been preferred against him.

52. Mr. Fenner Brockway

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations on what grounds Mr. L. M. Seretse, of Mahalapye, Bechuanaland, has been arrested.

Mr. J. Foster

Mr. L. M. Seretse was arrested on a charge of inciting to public violence. This case is stillsub judice.