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3.
My present feeling is that Tshekedi is so highly esteemed by pro-native opinion in this country that a refusal to recognise Seretse would not necessarily cause any serious political embarrassment here. But the consideration which mainly weighs with me is the grave danger that Seretse's recognition might lead to an insistent demand for the transfer of the Bechuanaland Protectorate to the Union and indeed possibly forcible action on the part of extremists in the Union. The final result might therefore be disastrous not only to Seretse himself, but to the entire native population of the Protectorate.
46
Faced with this dilemma I have been wondering whether it might not be desirable to ask Seretse to return to England for discussion of his position at this Office. There seems to me a certain chance that he might be prepared to with- draw his claim to the Chieftainship, if he appreciated the difficulties felt by the United Kingdom Government, though I realise that we should have to proceed very diplomatically. We should presumably have to offer some financial assistance by way of a yearly allowance. I think that there might be a certain advantage in asking him to return here rather than instructing you to conduct the discussion with him, and it would presumably be helpful in deferring the departure of his wife to join him in South Africa.
5.
This proposal does not of course rule out the possibility of our eventually having 'to set up a judicial enquiry if as a result of the talks with Seretse it becomes evident that this will be the best course. But a certain amount of delay will not be disadvantageous, assuming that the tribal administration can function satisfactorily in the mean- time. I assume that Tshekedi still remains as Acting Chief until you have recognised a successor.
6.
As you have already had some discussion with Seretse you will be able to judge better than I can what his reaction is likely to be to the above proposal. If, however, you find yourself in agreement with my suggestion I should be glad if you would, when you visit Mafeking, tell him that I should like him to return here for a discussion at the Commonwealth Relations Office regarding his position and suggest that he should proceed by air as soon as possible. You would presumably agree that the cost of his journey, and if necessary a subsistence allow- ance while he is here, should be paid from Bechuanaland Protectorate fund.
7.
This telegram has been prepared in consultation with my Ministerial colleagues.
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