HC Deb 07 April 1954 vol 526 cc35-6W
62. Mr. R. Robinson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what is the present situation in British Guiana; and what recent threats there have been to sabotage the Colony's dyke system.

Mr. Lyttelton

There have been demonstrations in Georgetown in connection with the arrest of Dr. Jagan on 3rd April. In the course of these demonstrations about 40 persons were arrested. The strike on sugar estates called by the P.P.P. shows signs of spreading. The Governor reports that the situation is under control and that the morale and behaviour of the police has been first class.

As regards the second part of the Question, there were reports that P.P.P. agents had been instructed to open the sluice gates at high tide in Georgetown. Precautions were taken, but no attempts have so far been made.