§ 26. Mr. C. Hughesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies why a curfew is imposed on St. Helenians employed on Ascension Island.
§ Mr. J. AmeryThe curfew which is of long standing is enforced rarely and then only for special reasons. For example, on the last occasion—four days in January, 1958—it was the means of apprehending a night prowler who had been entering the homes of staff out on night duty. Until recently, lights were put out in the quarters of the St. Helenian staff of Cable and Wireless at 11 p.m. but. following an 195 improvement of the electricity supply, the time is now 11.30. This restriction is relaxed for all social occasions.
§ Mr. HughesWhy should there be a curfew at all for these British subjects? Why should there be these disciplinary measures on this British island? Will the hon. Gentleman look at the matter again? To differentiate between one set of British subjects and another really does give rise to the greatest resentment on the island. I should be very grateful if the hon. Gentleman would consider the question from that point of view.
§ Mr. AmeryAs I tried to explain at the beginnning of my reply, the curfew is very seldom used. The last occasion was just over a year ago.