Seretse Khama
SIR,—In your note on the Seretse Khama affair you say that a British Commonwealth that demanded segregation of black and white would have no justification for existing. You seem to overlook the fact that racial separateness is a cardinal principle of social life in all the great self-governing Dominions. It is not confined merely to the Union of South Africa as the Press here (including the Spectator) is trying to make out. It is worthy of note also that the most determined exponents of racial separateness are the Dominion Labour Parties and trade unionists. If proof of this is required, I may mention that about a year ago a number of Asiatics and their European wives were deported from Australia by the orders of the Labour Government under Mr. Ben Chifley. In South Africa in 1922 there was an armed revolt by white trade unionists against the Government for proposing to lift the economic colour-bar. It would be as well for people here who are trying to break down the colour-bar to remember that the racial instincts in the Dominions are so deep, so ineradicable, that any attempt to bring pressure on them to change their policy will result in their uniting against Britain. That is a..development which no one in his senses desires outside the ranks of the Communists and their fellow-travellers.—I am, Sir, yours, &c., F. R. HAYES. 5 Durand Gardens, Stockwell, S.W.9.
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