HC Deb 05 March 1919 vol 113 cc388-9
22. Mr. SPOOR

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that natives of the country, however wealthy, clothed, or educated, are not allowed to travel first or second-class on the Uganda Government Railway; whether this applies also to natives of India; whether any order or regulation to this effect has been approved by the Colonial Office or has been made known to it and not disapproved; and, if so, what action he proposes to take in the matter?

Lieutenant-Colonel AMERY

I understand that directions were given in 1914 for second-class accommodation to be reserved for Indian travellers on at least one train a week each way. On other points I have no information, but inquiry will be made of the Governor.

Mr. SPOOR

Will the hon. and gallant Gentleman issue instructions that this absurd colour discrimination should immediately cease?

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Was the India Office consulted as to this interference with the liberty of Indians to travel on any trains?

Lieutenant-Colonel AMERY

I shall have to ask for notice of that question, but my recollection is that second and first-class accommodation on the Uganda railway some years ago was absolutely identical.