Strong opposition to any project for return of African colonies to Germany was voiced here today by two prominent political leaders, former Interior Minister J.H, Hofmeyer, and Leslie Blackwell, well-known member of Parliament. Views of both were contained in formal statements.
Mr. Hofmeyer said: “It is not only because Germany is not a member of the League of Nations that we object to the transfer. It is chiefly because of the manner in which Germany is treating her minorities, religious and political, which is entirely at variance with the covenant of the league of nations. there must be a change of heart and spirit in the leaders of Germany before any consideration is given to transferring mandates to Germany.”
Mr. Blackwell advanced practical considerations for his opposition to a transfer of colonies, declaring: “We must put our foot down and say ‘No, Never.’ We must keep Southwest Africa not for economic reasons but because of the territory’s strategic and geographical importance. as a republic we would not b e strong enough to hold southwest Africa. the only way we can do it is through our membership and allegiance to the british commonwealth of Nations. We do not expect to reap where we don’t sow. We cannot ask Great Britain to protect us unless we are prepared to do our small and humble share to protect her.”
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The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
