HC Deb 23 November 1938 vol 341 c1756
54. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the Government of Sierra Leone proposes in its legislation validating acts committed under the Sherbro Judicial Ordinance, 1923, to make this legislation retrospective, and thereby to indemnify public officers for action in demolishing certain private buildings; and whether he will issue instructions for the suspension of the proposed legislation?

Mr. M. MacDonald

I am informed that legislation of the nature referred to has been passed by the Legislative Council of Sierra Leone after a free vote, when the majority of the Unofficial Members voted for the Bill. I am expecting shortly an explanatory report giving details of the legislation.

Mr. Sorensen

Can the right hon. Gentleman let me have a copy of that when it comes?

Mr. MacDonald

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Sorensen

Does the right hon. Gentleman know whether this legislation is retrospective?

Mr. MacDonald

Yes, Sir, it is retrospective.