§ Mr. J. Johnsonasked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations if he is aware that aeroplanes from the Union of South Africa are landing for refuelling in Basutoland Protectorate; what talks he has held with the South African Defence Minister in this matter; and for what purpose the aeroplanes are flying over the Protectorate.
§ Mr. AlportNo public refuelling facilities exist anywhere in Basutoland, though small private and chartered aircraft entering the Colony for business or pleasure do occasionally refuel by local arrangement. In regard to the second part of the Question, I have nothing to add to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member for Sunderland, South (Mr. P. Williams) on 21st November, 1957. On two occasions Union military aircraft have flown over Basutoland after seeking permission. Both occasions were routine flights and the shortest course lay across the Territory.