HC Deb 15 December 1936 vol 318 c2248
2. Mr. CREECH JONES

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether the Sedition Act, as passed by the Southern Rhodesian Parliament, has been submitted to him; and whether he is prepared to recommend disallowance?

Mr. M. MacDONALD

The Act was forwarded to me in the usual course, but as it contained no provisions which do not apply equally to Europeans and natives, it did not fall within the special provisions of the Constitution relating to the classes of Bills which the Governor is required to reserve for the signification of His Majesty's pleasure. The Governor was, therefore, informed that His Majesty would not be advised to exercise his powers of disallowance in respect of it.

Mr. JONES

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that the Bill will adversely affect freedom of speech, and dissension among the native people?

Mr. MacDONALD

The Bill will affect the native and European population in exactly the same way.