HC Deb 22 September 1948 vol 456 cc862-4
12. Mr. Henderson Stewart

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what developments have taken place in the strike situation in British Guiana during the past six weeks; what action has been taken by his Department and by the local Governor to restore public order and normal production on the sugar estates; when the Commission to inquire into the sugar cane industry will begin operations; what are its terms of reference; and what is its composition.

27. Mr. H. Hynd

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the Commission of Inquiry into the Sugar Industry in British Guiana has yet been appointed; whether be will make a statement on the recent strike in this industry; and whether, in this connection, he is aware that strikers have been evicted from their houses and prohibited from fishing and that trespass notices have been served on labour leaders.

Mr. Creech Jones

I am glad to report that, as a result of negotiations conducted by the Governor between representatives of both sides, certain assurances given by the employers have been accepted by the labour representatives. The strike ended on 4th of September and by the 16th between 3,000 and 4.000 workers, including 1,000 cane cutters, had returned to work. In these circumstances, the Governor has withdrawn the proclamation over the area and conditions are now normal. It is a fact that the proprietors of certain affected estates served notices against trespass on the leaders of the new and unrecognised union, and also that they issued a number of eviction notices on labourers said by them to be intimidators. As part of the settlement reached, however, the employers have agreed to suspend all action in respect of such notices, subject to the right to proceed in certain serious cases. I am not aware of any action involving the prohibition of fishing.

I will make a statement about the Commission of Inquiry into the sugar industry as soon as its constitution has been settled.

Mr. Stewart

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that despite the settlement of the strike the Communist inspired leaders who caused the trouble are still conducting a vigorous subversive propaganda throughout the Colony and, in view of the statement of the Foreign Secretary on the 15th of this month, what steps has he taken to preserve that British Colony from Communist attacks?

Mr. Creech Jones

That matter is very much in our minds and the activities of the persons referred to are under consideration.

Commander Noble

Can the Minister say whether since the strike was settled there have been any disturbances?

Mr. Creech Jones

No.

Mr. Gallacher

Would not the Minister agree that Communist propaganda clear and straight is much better than the twisted propaganda of the National Liberals?

Mr. Stewart

As some of us did not hear the Minister's statement about the Commission, would he say what is the position in regard to the Commission which is to be appointed?

Mr. Creech Jones

I have been in negotiation with the possible members of the Commission, but I am not yet in a position to make an announcement as to its constitution and complete terms of reference.