Mrs. Butler:

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what examination he is making of the labour problem in Swaziland, following the recent strike; and if he will make a statement.

The report of the Board of Inquiry into the Havelock Mine strike has been received and is being studied. The report of the Inquiry into the Big Bend Sugar Plantation strike in March is expected very shortly.

The Swaziland Government are appointing a Board of Inquiry into wage levels throughout the Territory. My right hon. Friend is trying to find a chairman for this Board from outside the Territory. The Swaziland Government are also setting up a National Joint Industrial Council to establish contact between employers and employees, particularly trade unions. Plans are also in hand to strengthen the Labour Department, following a visit to the Territory by the Colonial Office labour adviser.

Mrs. Butler:

In view of our responsibilities as the protecting Power and the particular importance of not continuing to follow the South African pattern of exploiting very low workers'standards, what power will this new Board of Inquiry set up by the Swaziland Government have to recommend an adequate wage structure as part of a comprehensive programme of social advance? Further, can the hon. Gentleman say when it is expected to report?

Mr. Fishe:

r: I cannot answer the last part of the hon. Lady's supplementary question. The question of minimum wage rates will certainly be one of the matters which the Board of Inquiry will be considering.