§ 36. Mr. PARKINSONasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what measures are taken to prevent abuse of the powers to exact forced labour in cases of real or threatened famine which are conferred on native authorities in Gambia under Clause 1C of the Native Authority Ordinance, 1983; and whether he is satisfied that the Clause conforms with the Geneva Forced Labour Convention?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERThe Government of the Gambia will exercise a close supervision over the working of the Ordinance through the Commissioners in charge of the provinces. I am advised that the Clause in question does not conflict with any provision of the Convention to which the hon. Member refers.
§ 37. Mr. PARKINSONasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his consent was given to the enactment of forced labour in Gambia Protectorate; and whether, in view of 1911 the frequency of famine, any steps are being taken, by irrigation or otherwise, to increase the amount of land available for cultivation and thus increase the supply of food?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI presume the hon. Member refers to the Native Authority Ordinance of 1933, which, as I have just stated, is in conformity with the International Labour Convention. I approved the provisions of this Ordinance in draft. Famine is not at all frequent in the Gambia, but steps are being taken to increase the production of food locally.