HC Deb 21 March 1956 vol 550 c1250
57. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies on what grounds Syrians are not permitted to vote in local government elections under the new franchise regulations in Sierra Leone.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

This matter was recently debate in the Sierra Leone Legislative Council, which decided that no aliens should be entitled to vote in local government elections but that there should be no restriction in this respect on racial grounds against any persons born in the territory. Legislation will shortly be introduced to give effect to this decision.

Mr. Sorensen

Do I understand from the right hon. Gentleman that Syrians who are naturalised or born in Sierra Leone will be entitled to the franchise?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

That is so.