HC Deb 05 April 1950 vol 473 cc1180-1
38. Mr. A. Fenner Brockway

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has yet been able to review the sentence of 12 months' imprisonment passed upon Kwame N'Kruma, head of the People's Convention Party in the Gold Coast, as well as sentences passed upon trade union leaders, for inciting illegal strikes; and whether he will take steps to secure that they are treated as political prisoners, with facilities to read books and to write.

Mr. J. Griffiths

It is for the Governor, in whom the prerogative is vested, to review these cases if he thinks fit: and I am not in a position to intervene. I should, of course, bring to the Governor's notice any representations made to me in the matter. The treatment of prisoners is a matter for decision in accordance with local rules.

Mr. Brockway

Is my right hon. Friend aware that in an earlier reply the Colonial Office said that they would look into the question of a review of these sentences?

Mr. Griffiths

If my hon. Friend asks me, I will myself look into this matter, but it is a matter to be decided locally.