§ 31. Mr. Brockwayasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if, in view of the findings in the Gomes Commission Report, he will instruct the Governor of Trinidad to take action to end corrupt practices in the Port of Spain City Council.
§ Mr. LytteltonThis is a matter for the Trinidad Government. In a letter to the Mayor of Port-of-Spain which was published with the Commission's Report, the Governor proposed safeguards against irregularities in municipal affairs on lines which have been generally accepted in this country. I understand that the city council have recently approved draft legislation substantially giving effect to these proposals.
§ Mr. Fenner BrockwayIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that in Trinidad there is considerable feeling that people of influence are being sheltered, and will he insist that the findings of this Commission should be carried out, irrespective of influential positions which persons may hold?
§ Mr. LytteltonThe hon. Member's allegations are entirely without foundation. My information is that whereas there was a suspicion that certain offences had been committed against the Prevention of Corruption Ordinance there was insufficient evidence for a prosecution, and the Governor has proposed instead that existing legislation should be strengthened to provide for much more rigorous control over contract, audit, sale and leasing of land, tendering for supplies and supervision of expenditure, and draft legislation is in hand.