HC Deb 02 February 1949 vol 460 c1668
27. Mr. Driberg

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware that a number of officers serving in the Jamaica Battalion are debarred from applying for regular commissions because they are not of European descent; and if he will take steps to remove this discrimination.

Mr. Creech Jones

Since the Jamaica Battalion is not a regiment of the Regular Army its officers, whether of European descent or otherwise, except for those seconded from Regular units, hold either Governor's Commissions or War Emergency King's Commissions.

Mr. Driberg

Could my right hon. Friend explain what that answer means?

Mr. Creech Jones

If my hon. Friend will see me afterwards I shall be very glad to do so.

Mr. Stanley

Is not the effect of the right hon. Gentleman's answer to make plain that, in the case of the Jamaica Regiment, there is no discrimination in this matter between Europeans and those of African descent?

Mr. Driberg

While thanking the right hon. Gentleman opposite for answering on behalf of my right hon. Friend, may I ask whether my right hon. Friend is aware that there is discrimination in fact, and that I shall refer to this matter in a speech on the Adjournment on Friday?