§ Mr. Woodsasked, the Secretary of State for the Colonies what is the statutory definition of an Indian in Ceylon?
Mr. M. MacDonaldFor the purposes of the Immigration Law of Ceylon an Indian is defined as a native of India. I am not aware of any other definition of an Indian in the island.
§ Mr. Woodsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware of the fact that repeated complaints of racial discrimination against Indians resident in Ceylon have been made by the Indian community in Ceylon to the Ceylon Government during the last five years, and to the various enactments and regulations passed by the Ceylon Government since 1929 which adversely affect the interests of the Indian community in 2207W the island, especially the scheme of repatriation; and what steps he is taking to safeguard the interests of Indians in Ceylon?
Mr. M. MacDonaldI am aware that such complaints have been made on various occasions. As regards the last part of the question, I am in consultation with the Governor as to any steps necessary to ensure that due observation is accorded to the interests of the Indian community in the island.