§ Mr. SCURR (by Private Notice)asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been called to the labour dispute in Georgetown, British Guiana; whether the request of the labourers for arbitration was refused by the employers; and whether during a disturbance on 3rd April following on the refusal of the employers 12 persons were killed, one being shot in the back, and 14 were wounded by the police; and if he will cause an impartial inquiry to be held?
The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Thomas)Yes, Sir, I have heard of the unfortunate dispute referred to, which in consequence of a not resulted in loss of life. A special inquiry into the whole question is now being held, and a Commission has also been appointed to report on the conditions of employment of dock labourers. Pending the receipt of the report I cannot make any further statement.