§ 30. Mr. Fenner Brockwayasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will instruct the British Consul to take steps to facilitate the presence of Manilall Jalabhay, a British subject, at his appeal in Réunion on 19th July against the decision of a lower court to exclude him from the island.
§ Lord John HopeHer Majesty's consular representatives at Antananarivo and Reunion were asked to inquire of the French authorities whether they would be prepared to permit Mr. Manilall Jalabhay to visit Réunion for the period of his appeal. I have now heard that the French authorities regret that they are not prepared to do this.
§ Mr. BrockwayWhilst appreciating what the British Consul has done, which I believe has succeeded in permitting the brother of Mr. Jalabhay to go to the Island of Reunion, may I ask whether the Government will protest in the strongest possible form, first, against the deportation of a British subject, and, secondly, against the refusal to allow him to attend the court when his case is being considered?
§ Lord John HopeThe hon. Gentleman's Question relates only to the second part of his supplementary question. About that I see no reason to protest. We have done what we could, and the French are perfectly within their rights in taking the course that they have taken.
§ Mr. J. JohnsonIs the hon. Gentleman aware that no charge has been levied against this gentleman? He has merely been accused of practising jewellery, and there are thousands of jewellers in the island of his own nationality.
§ Lord John HopeHe has been charged under a decree of 2nd March, 1940.
§ Mr. BrockwayOn a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory reply, I wish to give notice that I shall take the earliest opportunity of raising this matter on the Adjournment.