HC Deb 22 June 1938 vol 337 cc1102-3W
Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that repeated attempts have been made by the British authorities in British Somaliland to induce Ethiopian refugees, including Fitamen Baede, an Ethiopian chief, to return to Abyssinian territory; and whether he will give an assurance that such pressure shall not be exercised in the future?

Mr, M. MacDonald

I cannot accept the suggestion that any pressure has been brought to bear on any of the Ethiopian refugees in Somaliland to return to Ethiopia. The Governor's instructions are that no pressure of any kind should be put on them to return, and as I said on r5th June, none of the refugees will be sent back against their will.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the reorganisation of the judicial arrangements in the Protectorate of Somaliland has now taken place, and if provision has yet been made in the Protectorate for making free legal advice and assistance available to accused persons in the Protectorate?

Mr. M. MacDonald

The draft of an Order-in-Council making the necessary provision for the reorganisation of the judicial system will be submitted to His Majesty in Council this month, and will become effective as soon as the Order-in-Council is passed and proclaimed in the Protectorate. As I announced on the 25th May, advocates will be allowed to appear in cases of murder and manslaughter, but I am not in a position at present to say whether it will be practicable to supply accused persons with free legal aid.