HC Deb 14 May 1928 vol 217 cc642-3
15. Mr. ERNEST BROWN

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he is aware that, when the Municipal Council of Salisbury, Southern Rhodesia, undertook to erect in native areas, for the habitation of natives, a certain number of native dwellings, it was decided to reject any tenders unless native bricklayers and plasterers were prohibited from taking any part in building these native dwellings; and whether, in view of the provisions in the letters patent as set forth in the Paper [Cmd. 1573] of 1922, he proposes to take any action in the matter?

Mr. AMERY

I have seen references to the matter in the Southern Rhodesia Press, but I have no other information on the subject. The question does not appear to be one regarding which I have the power to take any action under the provisions of the letters patent.

Mr. BROWN

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether this colour bar was enforced under pressure from the Rhodesian Labour party?

Mr. AMERY

I do not know at all. It is purely a municipal matter.