31. Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he has received the report of the Commission on the disturbances in Mauritius last year; whether he proposes to remove some of the causes of political discontent by a more liberal franchise; and what steps are being taken to establish trade union rights and remove the causes of labour unrest?
Mr. M. MacDonaldYes, Sir, copies of the report of the Commission have now been received from Mauritius. Some time will necessarily be required for consideration of the detailed recommendations 1566 which the report contains, but preliminary action has already been taken in various directions. An experienced labour officer has been appointed who will give his whole time to the study of industrial conditions and problems. The Government of Mauritius proposes to enact legislation to set up industrial associations and conciliation boards. The underlying principle of this legislation will be the establishment in Mauritius of provisions for collective bargaining between employers and employés and for the discussion of common problems. As regards developments in the political sphere, the report made no specific recommendations, and I am not in a position to make any announcement. It raises complex issues which will require careful consideration. But the Governor has already taken steps to secure the representation of the small planters and labourers during the current session of the Legislative Council by nominating two representatives of these classes as temporary members of the Council.