§ 33. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State far the Colonies what further progress has been made respecting trade unionism in Jamaica; what stabilised trade unions now exist and their approximate membership; how far certain trade unions overlap or are in conflict; and what is the cause of dispute and the settlement arrived at in the bakery industry?
§ Colonel StanleyI am in communication with the Governor regarding all these matters, and as soon as I receive his reply I will send my hon. Friend full information. For the moment I can only say that no impediment stands in the way of the formation of further trade unions, that about twenty registered unions now exist 184 of which only a few have any substantial membership; that the most important is a union of a general character whereas the remaining unions relate to specified occupations or trades.
§ Mr. SorensenWould the Minister reply to the last part of my Question, which deals with the unfortunate dispute, as a result of which a certain amount of damage was done?
§ Colonel StanleyThat is one of the matters on which I would prefer to defer a reply until I have full particulars from the Government.
§ Squadron-Leader DonnerAre not many of the troubles in the Island due to the activities of Bustamente and his henchmen? Will my right hon. and gallant Friend look into the activities of this man?