§ 43. Colonel WEDGWOODasked whether four South African natives were recently turned out of their cabin and forcibly removed from a Union-Castle boat, on which they had booked their passage, by other passengers; if so, why they were not protected from this outrage; and whether any steps have been taken to compensate them for the loss of their luggage and delay, and to find them some passage to South Africa where they will be safe from violence and race hatred?
§ Lieut.-Colonel AMERYI would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the answer which I gave to the hon. Member for Consett on the 30th October. The unfortunate occurrence was quite unforseen and in the circumstances no steps to guard against it appear to have been practicable. On the question of compensation I am unable to add anything to my previous answer. I understand that passages will be found in an early boat.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODDo I under stand that there is no compensation to be paid to these men, who have been forcibly ejected, not being protected by the police, for the loss of their clothes?
§ Lieut.-Colonel AMERYI understand that the Union-Castle Company disclaim liability, but that the immediate needs of those men have been met as to the cost of living and clothes.