HC Deb 08 October 1941 vol 374 cc974-5
33. Dr. Morgan

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether there is any record of any employer or planter being prosecuted and sentenced in Barbados, British West Indies, for recommending, asking, or urging his confreres in public or in private to join an employers' or planters' association; and why there is differentiation when a worker asks his colleagues to join a trade union and so incurs a penalty of imprisonment for 10 years?

Mr. George Hall

The answer to the first part of the Question is in the negative. With regard to the second part of the Question, my Noble Friend cannot accept the suggestion that any persons have been imprisoned for engaging in political or trade union activities in Barbados.

Dr. Morgan

Is it not the case that Grant was sentenced to 10 years' imprisonment for asking his confrere workers to join a trade union?

Mr. Hall

No, Sir. Grant was sentenced for seditious practices.

Dr. Morgan

Was it not definitely stated in the charge sheet that he asked his fellow workers to join a trade union?

Mr. Shinwell

Will my hon. Friend say what were the seditious practices for which this person was sentenced?

Mr. Hall

For rioting.

Mr. Shinwell

Was it rioting in connection with trade union organisation, because that has sometimes occurred in this country, although it has not been regarded as sedition?

Mr. Hall

It has occurred in this country, and, unfortunately, people have been imprisoned for it.

Dr. Morgan

Is it not a fact that on the case sheet this man was charged with encouraging workers to join a trade union?

Mr. Hall

According to my information he was sentenced for sedition.

Mr. Stephen

Will my hon. Friend make further inquiries into this case in view of the statement made by a member of his own party?

Mr. Hicks

This case is constantly receiving the attention of the Colonial Office.