Swaziland

Oral Answers to Questions — Overseas Development – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 18 July 1968.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Mr Patrick Wall Mr Patrick Wall , Haltemprice 12:00, 18 July 1968

asked the Minister for Overseas Development if he will make a statement on discussions with the Swazi Government over development and budgetary aid and the settlement of the land problem.

Photo of Mr Reginald Prentice Mr Reginald Prentice , East Ham North

We expect to hold discussions in the Autumn about budgetary and development assistance after 31st March, 1969. As was made clear at the Independence Conference in March the land question can, if the Swaziland Government so wishes, be discussed at these talks, in the context of Swaziland's new Development Plan now being prepared.

Photo of Mr Patrick Wall Mr Patrick Wall , Haltemprice

Is it not a fact that the Prime Minister of Swaziland has requested to come here to see the right hon. Gentleman and the Secretary of State next week in order to discuss these things, and to try to get a settlement before independence? Is he aware that if this is not done there could be grave repercussions on Europeans living in Swaziland after independence?

Photo of Mr Reginald Prentice Mr Reginald Prentice , East Ham North

My right hon. Friend and I would be glad to discuss this matter with the Swaziland Prime Minister. On the claims made by Swaziland, about land alienated in the early years of this century, the Government have made it clear that they do not accept that claim. They think it might be reasonable for Swaziland to include land settlement projects in its Development Plan, which could then be taken into account when the aid is discussed.

Mr. J. T. Price:

While I have no objection whatever to my right hon. Friend lending his good offices to help solve the land question in Swaziland, or any of the other ex-Colonies, is he aware, and are the Government aware, that we have a very serious land problem in this country—rocketing land values, which are one of the country's greatest scandals, which the Government have done nothing to correct.

Photo of Mr Reginald Prentice Mr Reginald Prentice , East Ham North

I agree that it is a problem in this country, but I would have thought that the Government's legislation, setting up the Land Commission, does something about these matters, even if long overdue.