On Thursday, June 2nd, the South African Assembly carried the
second reading of the Flag Bill by 69 votes to 54. This was the smallest majority the Pact Govern- ment have had since they came into power. One Labour member voted against the Bill and was immediately expelled from • the Labour caucus. At one moment in the debate it seemed that the Government would offer peace.. Dr. .Malan said that the *Bill 'would be sent to a Select Committee and that General Smuts would then have an opportunity for proposing a design embodying the Union Jack and the two Republican flags. Unhappily, Dr. Malan spoiled the effect of the concession by declaring that such a flag would make South Africa a laughing-stock. The Select Committee, since appointed, contains nine representatives of the Government and only six of the Opposition.
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