77. Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether 1181 there is any special reason why all public and other meetings of a political character are denied to the working people of Mauritius?
Mr. M. MacDonaldMy information does not bear out the suggestion in the hon. Member's question. I am informed that in recent months the Governor has considered it desirable in the public interest to withhold permission for a few particular meetings. These occasions have not been confined to meetings of workpeople. There is no general restriction on public or other meetings in Mauritius.
Mr. Creech JonesIf I produce evidence which bears out the statement in my question, will the Minister give some attention to this matter? In view of the fact that there are no opportunities for political expression by working people in Mauritius, should not some immediate change be made in the Constitution of that Colony?