HC Deb 28 July 1952 vol 504 cc1072-3
13. Mr. Driberg

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that the Hon. Grantly Adams, C.M.G., a West Indian political and trade union leader, was detained recently in New York by the United States immigration authorities while on his way to an executive board meeting of the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions, holding a British passport with a valid United States visa endorsed "Foreign Government Official on Temporary Visit"; what representations he has made to the United States authorities regarding this incident; and what explanation he has received.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

Yes, Sir. Her Majesty's Ambassador asked the United States State Department to explain this incident. The State Department expressed deep regret that it should have occurred and attributed it to a misunderstanding. The United States Government sent messages of apology to Mr. Adams and to the Governor of Barbados.

Mr. Driberg

While I am grateful for the last words of that reply, could the right hon. and learned Gentleman explain how it is that there have been three similar misunderstandings in quite recent times, Mr. Norman Manley and Mr. Bustamente himself having experienced similar indignities?

Mr. Lloyd

I am unable to answer the hon. Gentleman's question, but in this case the United States Government have made a full apology. I understand that Mr. Adams is perfectly satisfied with it and I think that this incident might be allowed to rest there.