HC Deb 28 January 1942 vol 377 cc695-6
13. Mr. David Adams

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that visas are being refused by British Consulates in the United States of America to highly qualified American negroes desiring to work at the United States naval and air bases in the West Indies, whilst white Americans are not so denied; and whether it is now intended to terminate this colour discrimination?

The Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. George Hall)

No, Sir, but if my hon. Friend has particulars of any such cases and will let me have them, inquiries will be made.

Mr. Adams

I shall be very glad to submit further information.

23. Mr. Riley

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been called to several recent cases of colour bar disturbances in the West Indies, such disturbances being caused by United States of America citizens employed on the naval bases, and who object to coloured West Indians frequenting certain West Indian clubs and public refreshment houses which are also used by American workmen employed at the naval bases; and what action he is taking in this matter?

Mr. Hall

I have seen reports of cases of colour prejudice in two of the Colonies concerned, but inquiries which were made did not bear out these reports. I shall be obliged if my hon. Friend will let me have details of the cases to which he refers.

Mr. Riley

I will do so.