§ 33. Mr. McENTEEasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs if he will state the present position in Newfoundland; whether any assistance to maintain order was asked for by the Governor; and whether any sailors were landed?
Mr. THOMASI have received this morning the following message from the Governor of Newfoundland:
Acts of disturbance and violence had been committed in Saint Johns and there was grave risk of disorder continuing and spreading. The strength of the constabulary force of Newfoundland was entirely inadequate to control the situation which had arisen. His Majesty's Government in Newfoundland are deeply grateful for the invaluable assistance which has been rendered by the visit of His Majesty's Ship "Dragon," which has enabled the strength 1395 of the constabulary force to be increased to a number which it is hoped, with the voluntary assistance of civilians including a large number of ex-service men, will prove adequate to preserve law and order.No men were landed, except for shore leave, from His Majesty's Ship "Dragon," which left 17th April.General conditions at present are quiet.
§ Mr. McENTEECan the right hon. Gentleman say whether it is proposed to hold any inquiry into the causes of this disorder, and, if so, whether the inquiry will be public?
Mr. THOMASThe hon. Member will know that if there had been similar difficulties in this country no one outside would be entitled to say what our domestic policy ought to be. Newfoundland is a Dominion, and is responsible for its own government.
§ Mr. McENTEEBut can the right hon. Gentleman say whether he has any information of a proposal to hold such an inquiry on the part of Newfoundland?