HC Deb 30 November 1938 vol 342 cc403-4
37. Mr. Woods

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that pressure and menaces are being used to compel German nationals in Tanganyika to become members of the Nazi League; has he any information regarding the activities, methods, and objects of the Nazi League in Tanganyika; and is he taking any steps to safeguard the civil liberties of the residents in Tanganyika?

Mr. M. MacDonald

As regards the first part of the question, I am aware that allegations to this effect have been made, but I have received no evidence to indicate that there has been any illegal activity on the part of the Nazi organisation. A careful watch on this organisation is maintained by the Government of Tanganyika Territory. The hon. Member can rest assured that all residents in the territory are afforded the full protection of the law.

Major Dower

Would not this problem, and also the uncertainty which exists in Tanganyika, be solved if we made it perfectly clear that in no circumstances would we ever hand back the Mandate?

Mr. Woods

Will the right hon. Gentleman make special inquiries to see whether these allegations were well founded?

Mr. MacDonald

I have asked the Governor recently for a report on the whole matter, and I will see that this particular aspect of it is included in the inquiry. With regard to the other question, I think the statement which was made the other day by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister has reassured the people of the Territory.

38. Mr. Woods

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been called to any attempt, by use of threats, to force any British subject of German ancestry resident in Tanganyika, to go to Germany for military training; and will he cause inquiries to be made as to the extent to which intimidation of this kind is being used in Tanganyika?

Mr. MacDonald

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. If the hon. Member has information on the subject, I shall be glad to receive it in order that I may make inquiries.

Mr. Woods

Is the Minister prepared to give a guarantee of security to persons giving the information, since that is the difficulty?

Mr. MacDonald

Perhaps the hon. Member will communicate with me, and I will consider the matter.

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