HC Deb 28 April 1926 vol 194 cc2030-1
73. Mr. SAKLATVALA

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he has received any representations as to the granting of permission to Ali Shirrah to return to Somaliland from the Seychelles, to which he was deported in 1919; and what action does he propose to take?

Mr. AMERY

I have received such representations, but do not propose to take any action until I am informed by the Governor of Somaliland that the return of this man will not endanger the peace of the Protectorate.

Mr. SAKLATVALA

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman if he realises that in Colonies and countries where people have no representation, and where there is no popular control over the actions of Governors, Parliament should rather control them from here, and is the right hon. Gentleman prepared to take that course?

Mr. AMERY

Yes, Sir, Parliament does control, but I hope Parliament will, through me, give reasonable discretion, and have some confidence in the Governor, who is appointed to look after the affairs of a Colony.

Mr. SAKLATVALA

Is there no difference between Parliament controlling the Governor and awaiting dictation from the Governor as to what the Secretary of State has got to do?

Mr. SPEAKER

That is rather argumentative.