HC Deb 05 December 1945 vol 416 c2298
4. Mr. Driberg

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies, if he will give an assurance that West Indians, now serving in the R.A.F., will have full opportunity, after demobilisation, of obtaining employment in flying and administrative duties with British West Indian airways.

Mr. George Hall

Yes, Sir. The Company has already adopted the policy of employing West Indian ex-Servicemen wherever possible.

Mr. Driberg

My right hon. Friend says "wherever possible," but is he aware that one of these airmen—a man who has the D.F.C. and other decorations—was informed by the Director of Civil Aviation in Trinidad that one of the difficulties about employing men like him was that American customers might object to flying with coloured pilots? Will my right hon. Friend give an assurance that no such colour bar will be allowed to operate?

Mr. Hall

I have no knowledge of the case to which my hon. Friend refers, but if he will give me particulars I will have full inquiries made.

Mr. Gallacher

Will not the Minister make a definite statement that no colour bar of any kind will be allowed to operate against these pilots?

Mr. Hall

I can say on behalf of myself and the Government that we are opposed to a colour bar.