§ 17. Mr. W. BAKERasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he is aware that the natives of Southern Rhodesia have been prevented from organising themselves in a trade union, and that punitive measures have been taken against a native, Mr. Robert Sambo, who endeavoured to form a branch of the Industrial and Commercial Workers' Union of South Africa; whether, in view of Article 41 of the Southern Rhodesia constitution, letters patent, which lays down that, with certain exceptions, no disabilities or restrictions not equally applying to persons of European descent shall, without the previous consent of the High Commissioner, be imposed upon natives, he can say whether such consent was obtained; and whether he can give any information on the matter?
§ Mr. BAKERWill the right hon. Gentleman cause inquiries to be made with a view to removing what appears to be a serious grievance?
§ Mr. AMERYI will look into the matter. The hon. Member is, of course, aware that Southern Rhodesia is a country possessing responsible self-government, and that it is only in matters affecting the position of the natives that the special reservations enjoyed by the High Commissioner would be exercised.
§ Mr. BAKERSurely this is a matter of the most serious moment to the natives, and it is unsatisfactory that an organisation which is allowed freely to operate within the Union should be barred across the border?
§ Mr. AMERYThe conditions are not identical, but I will look into the matter. I can give no absolute assurance.
§ Mr. MACQUISTENIs it not the fact that when the natives were asked to form a trade union they inquired what it was; and that when they were told that it was an organisation against the "bosses," they replied, "Why. They are the best friends we have. They give us a job."