HC Deb 26 April 1939 vol 346 c1131
37. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has considered the protest sent by the Mabella Workers' Union, Sierra Leone, alleging misrepresentation of facts concerning an interview between a Government representative and men on strike; whether the Government is attempting to mediate between the employés and the strikers, and what action is being taken equitably to settle the dispute?

Mr. M. MacDonald

With regard to the first part of the question, I am informed by the Governor that the protest is entirely without foundation. As to the second and third parts of the question, the position is that the Government has at present no legal power to intervene. I understand that no request for mediation by Government has been made either by the employers or employés, and that, having regard to the attitude of representatives of the strikers, the Governor has no reason to believe that his intervention is desired or would be acceptable.

Mr. Sorensen

Do I understand that nothing is to be done to bring this dispute to an end?

Mr. MacDonald

With regard to this dispute, nothing can be done by the Government unless the employers and employés desire it. With regard to future disputes, we are contemplating the introduction of legislation which will give the Government legal power.