§ Mr. Leachasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that in British Guiana only 10,000 persons out of a population of 340,000 are qualified to vote for the legislature notwithstanding the qualification of a £60 income; and what steps he proposes to take not only to render the constitution more democratic but to deal with the prevailing poverty disclosed?
Mr. M. MacDonaldYes, Sir, the position is approximately as stated by the hon. Member in the first part of the question. As regards the second part, I am taking such steps as are immediately practicable (for instance in connection with the sugar quota) to improve social and economic conditions, pending investigations into the whole situation in the Colony by the Royal Commission.
§ Mr. McGovernasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that Mr. C. B. Mathura, of 29, Rosalino Street, Woodbrook, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, made an application to the Governor of British Guiana to give evidence before the Commission, and leave was refused; that application was made with a view to his visiting British Guiana for the purpose of taking part in the Indian centenary celebrations, and 2223W that the inspector-general of police informed Mr. Mathura that the Governor in Council considered him to be a person within the meaning of the Undesirable Ordinance; and if he will take steps to allow the free movement of citizens engaged in cultural and trade union work?
Mr. M. MacDonaldI have asked the Governor of British Guiana for information on the matters raised in the hon. Member's question and I will communicate with him on receipt of the Governor's reply.