§ 12. Mr. Rileyasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the ban recently placed upon seven members of the Peoples' National Party in Jamaica prohibiting them from engaging in political propaganda in the island is still in force; and whether he will state the grounds for such prohibition?
§ Colonel StanleyYes, Sir. Restrictive orders were issued against these men by the Governor under Jamaica Defence Regulation No. 17, as they have been engaged in subversive propaganda work.
§ Mr. ShinwellWhat is meant by "subversive propaganda"? This is not a pacifist organisation. Can the Minister explain why this action was taken and say what is the nature of their offence?
§ Colonel StanleyPropaganda which tended to be adverse to the war effort.
§ Mr. ShinwellIn view of that statement, will the right hon. and gallant Gentleman be a little more explicit? Can he give us some indication of the actual nature of the offence committed by these persons?
§ Colonel StanleyI have given the general nature of the offence; it is subversive propaganda.
Mr. Shin wellWill the right hon. and gallant Gentleman then put in the OFFICIAL REPORT the actual nature of the offence committed, not only in a general form but in specific form, so that hon. Members may be fully informed?
§ Colonel StanleyIf the hon. Member has any further question to ask, I should be glad if he will put it upon the Paper.
§ Mr. RileyIs the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that this Peoples' National Party is a recognised political party in Jamaica working for constitutional aims?
§ Colonel StanleyYes, Sir, and there has been no prohibition or ban upon the party. This is a ban upon individual members of the party for acts which they have committed.