Thp South African Protectorates Mr. Thomas made a statement of
the utmost import- ance last week about the South African Protectorates and the proposal to transfer them to the Union of South Africa. It is satisfactory to learn that he appreciates the fact that native opinion is strongly opposed to the transfer, and that be does not regard the time as ripe for consulting them. He has re-stated to General Hertzog the general principles that the natives must be consulted before they are handed over to the Union, and that Parliament also must have an opportunity of expressing its views. He points out that closer co- operation between the Union Government and the administration of the territories, calculated to secure native confidence, will be necessary before transfer can be contemplated. The statement so far as it goes is reassuring. But judgement will be reserved until full details of the understanding arrived at with General Hertzog are published in the promised White Paper.
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