§ 31. Lieut.-Commander Fletcherasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has any statement to make concerning the situation in Jamaica, especially as to the enrolment of special 3085 constables and their equipment with rifles and the cancellation of police leave in anticipation of disorders on 1st August?
34. Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can make a statement on the condition of Jamaica, in view of the apprehension felt in regard to the good order of the Colony; and whether he is able to make any statement regarding the proposed inquiry into the recent disturbances and the conduct of those responsible for order in the Colony?
Mr. M. MacDonaldThe Government of Jamaica are pursuing steadily their plans for improving social and economic conditions in the Island, but I am aware that some anxiety prevails with regard to the celebrations which are to be held in connection with the centenary of emancipation on 1st August. It is suggested that these may provide an opportunity for a recrudescence of the recent unhappy disturbances, especially in view of rumours, which have been officially denied, that on that day land will revert to the peasants. The Colonial Government have taken due precautions. Special constables have been enrolled and equipped. I have seen a report in the Press regarding the cancellation of police leave, but have received no official confirmation of this. I hope and believe that the people of Jamaica will maintain good order on their day of celebrations. As regards the inquiry into the recent disturbances, I understand that this is now proceeding, though I have not yet had official confirmation of this.
Mr. Creech JonesWill the Minister consider making some official proclamation from London with a view to allaying the very considerable apprehension among these people as far as the centenary celebrations are concerned, and will he also note the considerable apprehension that is felt as to the way in which the disturbances which took place a few months back were quelled and the conduct of the police on that occasion?
Mr. MacDonaldWith regard to the first part of the question, if anything additional is required, I shall certainly be prepared to do it. I will consider the matter. With regard to the second part, all sorts of charges are always made on such occasions. I am certain that the great majority of them, if not all, are unfounded, but in any case, as I said in the answer, an 3086 inquiry is now being conducted into the facts.
§ Mr. RileyWill the right hon. Gentleman favourably consider the question of an amnesty for the persons who were arrested?
Mr. MacDonaldI have already said in answer to a previous question that that is a matter for the Governors of the Colonies concerned.
§ Mr. GallacherIs the Minister aware that there are rumours circulating that seamen arriving there are being enrolled as special police, and that I have seen letters to that effect?