HC Deb 29 June 1949 vol 466 cc1272-3
24. Mr. Keeling

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will make a further statement about the Gold Coast immigration regulations.

Mr. Creech Jones

As I informed the hon. Member for the Isle of Wight (Sir P. Macdonald) on 23rd March, the "Gazette" notice and directive were withdrawn by the Gold Coast Government for re-framing. The representations made by the interests concerned have been fully taken into account, and after discussions in which the Attorney-General of the Gold Coast took part, the Gold Coast Government published a revised notice in the "Gazette" of 18th June. A copy of the revised document has been placed in the Library of the House.

Mr. Keeling

Can the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that the revised regulations are designed in the true interests of the Colony and not as a mere sop to ill-informed agitation?

Mr. Creech Jones

I think we have tried to keep in mind in the redrafting of this directive, the criticisms which were formerly made, and that the general principles of policy previously laid down have been adhered to in the latest draft.

Sir Peter Macdonald

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the person responsible for the original drafting of these regulations was reprimanded or taken to task for issuing such documents?

Mr. Creech Jones

I do not accept that as a description of the procedure which was followed.