§ Mr. Brockwayasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a statement on the recent discussions between representatives of the Government of the Republic of South Africa and the High Commission Territories on extradition, border control posts, customs, 124W travel documents, the status of protectorate subjects, the movement of labour and related subjects.
§ Mr. FisherDiscussions on the replacement of the extradition arrangements which lapsed with South Africa's departure from the Commonwealth have reached an advanced stage at the official level. There will be an increase in the number of control posts on both sides of the frontiers. The Governments concerned are considering the siting of the posts.
The Customs Agreement of 1910, between the territories and the Union of South Africa, has not been affected.
There have been discussions in South Africa about the introduction, on 1st July, 1963, of a requirement for both European and African residents of the territories to carry travel documents when seeking to enter the Republic. As from the same date all South African citizens entering the High Commission territories will have to be in possession of valid passports or travel documents. These proposals, which were initiated by the Republican Government, are consistent with normal practice in frontier control between foreign countries. The discussions about the administrative arrangements have not yet been concluded.
The status of protectorate subjects remains unchanged.
The number of residents of the territories working in the Republic will not be affected by the new arrangements.