HC Deb 14 May 1959 vol 605 cc1427-8
51. Mr. Brockway

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what members of the African Miners' Union are still rusticated in Northern Rhodesia; how long they have been restricted in this way; and when freedom of movement is to be restored to them.

The Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Julian Amery)

I assume that the hon. Member is referring to the trade unionists among those persons whose movements were restricted during the emergency on the Copperbelt. Sixteen are restricted at present. Orders against a further fifteen are in abeyance, subject to their continued good conduct. With permission, I will circulate the names in the OFFICIAL REPORT. These persons have been rusticated since the end of November, 1956. Each order is reviewed periodically, with a view to its revocation or suspension, where the Governor is satisfied that it is safe to do so.

Mr. Brockway

Does not that Answer reveal a scandal, that trade union officials should have been kept in restriction for nearly three years now without trial and on no charge? Is that British justice in Northern Rhodesia?

Mr. Amery

They have been kept in detention because the Governor is satisfied, after very careful inquiry, that it is in the interests of the community as a whole.

Mr. J. Griffiths

I understand that a delegation from the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions which, as the Minister knows, has helped us in establishing democratic trade unions in the Colonies, is now in Northern Rhodesia. Can we be assured that it will have an opportunity of making representations to the Governor and the Government on these matters?

Mr. Amery

If it were to make representations we should most certainly consider them.

The list of restricted persons as at 11th May is as follows:

Elective orders

Orders in abeyance

Forward to