HC Deb 09 July 1941 vol 373 cc154-5
27. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Undersecretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the Director of Education in Jamaica is taking an active part in encouraging hostility to the new constitution; whether steps will be taken to prevent any civil servant displaying such partiality; whether he has received any amending proposals from the People's National Party; and whether progress is being made in the public consideration of the proposed constitutional changes?

Mr. George Hall

I have no information on the first part of the Question and shall be glad if my hon. Friend will let me know on what he bases his allegation. My Noble Friend is asking the Governor of Jamaica for a report on the last two parts of the Question, and I will communicate with my hon. Friend on receipt of his reply.

Mr. Sorensen

Would it be in order for a Director of Education, or some other civil servant in a similar position, to take an active part, one way or the other, in connection with the proposals of the new constitution?

Mr. Hall

I should say, no. I am awaiting with interest any information which my hon. Friend can send me to bear out the allegations which are made.

Dr. Morgan

Is it not a fact that under the present system in the West Indies officials must take part in politics and make statements? Would it not be wise to change the form of Government there?