HC Deb 19 July 1954 vol 530 c983
53. Mr. F. M. Bennett

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations in which territories, in respect of which he has reserved powers regarding natives, there exists statutory race discrimination affecting membership of trade unions or professional associations.

The Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations (Mr. John Foster)

Southern Rhodesia is the only territory in which the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations has reserved powers within the sphere mentioned by the hon. Member. There is no statutory discrimination on racial grounds in that territory as regards membership of trade unions or professional bodies.

Mr. Bennett

In view of that reply, can my hon. and learned Friend confirm that the recent Press reports that a coloured Southern Rhodesian journalist would have to leave his professional association on its registration as a trade union have since, happily, proved to be incorrect?

Mr. Foster

Yes, Sir.