HC Deb 05 July 1966 vol 731 c47W
65. Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what representations have been received by the Queen's Commissioner in Bechuanaland from local political leaders against the transmitter at Francistown and the presence there of British military forces; what action has followed; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Frederick Lee

In January, Mr. Mpho, President of the Botswana Independence Party, asserted that the relay station and the presence of troops threatened Bechuanaland's security and were a pretext for the establishment of a permanent British military post to suppress opposition and create a one-party State. The Bechuanaland Government replied that there were no grounds for these allegations.