Extract of a memorandum entitled ‘The development of Union Native Policy since 1935’, 1950

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159. An example will illustrate the system–

Johannesburg is an urban area “closed” to natives save those who fulfil special requirements. If a native in the Transvaal wishes to go to Johannesburg, he has to produce his tax receipt and identification pass to the

District pass officer and obtain a travelling pass. On arrival in Johannesburg, he has to report within 24 hours for a permit to seek work for six days. This may be renewed. If he finds work his contract of service must be registered monthly at a cost (to the employer) of 2s. If he wishes to travel, he must have his employer’s permission or a travel pass. An exemption certification relieves the holder of all these obligations.

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149. According to those who wish to retain the pass system, their object is three-fold:-

(1) they prevent the collection of vagrant labour in urban areas.

(2) they assist in the “proper” supply of labour to agriculture and mining; and

(3) they protect the standard of living of urban natives from the competition of temporary migrant labour.

The opponents of the system believe that on ethical and moral grounds the movement of the native should not be restricted, he should be able to sell his labour where he wishes. They maintain too that the harassing and constant interference with the freedom of the native is mainly responsible for the growing sense of grievance and injustice felt against the European.