HC Deb 01 November 1939 vol 352 cc1914-5
27. Mr. Paling

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has now received the result of the committee of inquiry appointed to investigate the circumstances which led to the detention of Mr. Wallace Johnson under a Sierra Leone Defence Regulation, with a view to preventing him acting in any manner prejudicial to public safety or defence; and, if so, will he tell the House the result of the inquiry and the nature of the action which led to Mr. Johnson's detention?

Mr. M. MacDonald

I learn from the Governor that the committee appointed to consider objections to Mr. Wallace Johnson's detention have advised that this is not a case where the Detention Order could be revoked or varied without injury to the public safety or defence. The committee's report is on its way to me by air mail and should arrive shortly. I cannot add anything further on the subject until I have received and considered it.

Mr. Paling

Before any other person is detained under this ordinance, will the right hon. Gentleman read the Debate which took place in this House last night upon a similar ordinance, and note what this House thought about it?

Mr. MacDonald

I have read it already. In connection with the consideration of the regulations for this country we shall, of course, be considering, if necessary, the Colonial regulations also.

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