97. Mr. Ivor Thomasasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations on what constitutional grounds he proposes to receive a deputation on the question of South-West Africa; and whether he has consulted with the Government of the Union of South Africa on the matter.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerI have agreed to see the deputation in order to hear their views on the action of the United Kingdom delegation in the Assembly of the United Nations on the question of the98W status of South-West Africa. It would not be right for me to discuss with them any matter which lies within the jurisdiction of another self-governing member of the Commonwealth. As the meeting with the deputation will be limited to a discussion of the policy of His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom, the hon. Member will understand that it would not be in accordance with normal practice to consult the Government of the Union.