HC Deb 13 May 1936 vol 312 cc371-2
31. Mr. A. HENDERSON

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies by virtue of what authority the Governor of Nigeria acts in deporting African chiefs and others at his discretion; how many persons have been so deported; whether deportation is for life or for some lesser term of years; and whether deportation orders are in any cases made subject to revision?

Mr J. H. THOMAS

It is assumed that the hon. Member is referring to the removal of ex-native office-holders. The Governor is empowered by Ordinance to order, if satisfied that it is necessary for the re-establishment or maintenance of peace, the removal of an ex-native officeholder from the area in which he has exercised authority. The person so removed may not return without the consent of the Governor, who may vary or rescind his order I will ask the Governor of Nigeria for the information necessary to reply to the second part of the question.

Mr. HENDERSON

Does not the right hon. Gentleman consider that these deportation orders savour somewhat of lettres de cachet, and does he not also consider that some authority other than the authority proposing the deportation orders should have the right periodically to review these sentences?

Mr. THOMAS

On the general question of deportation orders there have been people deported from that country to the advantage of the country, and I could not discriminate. If my hon. Friend will give me any particular reason why he believes there was injustice in this case, I will have the matter investigated.

Mr. HENDERSON

Does not the right hon. Gentleman consider that this power is very similar to the use of lettres de cachet? Does he not think that an authority other than the Governor himself should be entitled to review these deportation orders?

Mr. THOMAS

A Governor is mainly responsible for his particular Colony. He must, in the end, be the best judge of all the local circumstances, and if we once enter into a position whereby anybody can appeal over the head of the Governor then the maintenance of law and order becomes absolutely impossible.