S. Africa May Expel Foreign Black Workers

The government, declaring that “charity begins at home,” said today it may have to send home thousands of foreign black workers if sanctions force more South Africans out of work.

Minister of Manpower Pietie du Plessis denied a report in an influential financial newspaper that the government already had approved the expulsion of some of the 1.5 million black foreign workers, many of whom work in the gold and diamond mines that supply much of South Africa’s hard currency.

But Du Plessis said “contingency plans” were being drafted to send home foreign blacks if necessary in the future. “This action has been forced on the South African government by those who favor sanctions and disinvestment without having regard for the detrimental effect on innocent people,” he said.

‘Has No Option’

“Since charity begins at home, the government has no option but to give preference to the needs of its own citizens as regards job opportunities,” Du Plessis said in a statement issued in Pretoria, the capital.

Business Day, which closely reflects the thinking of business leaders, reported that the expulsions had been endorsed by senior Cabinet and military officials. An accompanying front-page editorial said the “mad and provocative act” would ensure tougher foreign steps against South Africa.

Support for sanctions, even if they mean increased hardship, are viewed by many as a peaceful way of pressuring the white-led government to move away from apartheid and to share power with the black majority.

The government hinted two months ago at the possibility of expelling foreign workers if sanctions and divestment damage the economy and drive up unemployment. President Pieter W. Botha has said sanctions would hurt blacks within South Africa and in neighboring countries more than whites.