§ 42. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether any further action has been taken to restore the legality of the Jamaica Railway Employees' Union; what action has been taken against those members of the union alleged to have engaged in subversive activity; and what was the precise nature of their offence?
§ Colonel StanleyThe Authorised Associations Regulations were cancelled by the Governor of Jamaica on 19th November, 712 and trade unions are now free to resume their former status with the assurance of the Jamaica Government's recognition, and sympathy with their legitimate activities. The members of the Jamaica Railway Employees' Union referred to were detained in the public interest under Regulation 18 (1) of the Jamaica Defence Regulations, 1940, which corresponds to Regulation 18B of the United Kingdom Defence Regulations. With regard to the last part of the Question, I am awaiting a further despatch from the Governor about the reasons which led to the detention of these persons.
§ Mr. SorensenIs the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that his reply will give great satisfaction both here and in Jamaica, by reason of the fact that the Railway Employees' Union is now legal, and can he say when the report concerning the alleged subversive activities will be available to the House?
§ Colonel StanleyI cannot say when I shall receive it.