HC Deb 14 October 1941 vol 374 cc1254-5W
Mr. Creech Jones

asked the Undersecretary of State for the Colonies whether a searching investigation will be made into the administration of the Defence Regulations in Jamaica since the war; what steps are being taken to rectify and amend the injustices committed; what guarantees are being insisted on for the impartial and just administration of the regulations in the future; and what steps are being taken in respect to those responsible for the administration which created so grave a condition in the Colony?

Mr. George Hall

No, Sir. As regards the second part of the Question, ray Noble Friend is quite unable to accept the suggestion that injustices have been committed in the administration of Defence. Regulations in Jamaica. The third and fourth parts of the Question do not, therefore, arise.

Mr. Creech Jones

asked the Undersecretary of State for the Colonies whether the emergency regulations in Jamaica will be amended to the form adopted in Britain after Parliamentary discussion; whether Regulation 23 will be amended so as to bring it into line with 39B in this country; and whether all persons detained before or after 16th May will be given the opportunity of appeal?

Mr. Hall

My Noble Friend is unable to agree with the proposition that all Defence Regulations in Jamaica or in any other colony should be amended to the form adopted in the United Kingdom; but, as my hon. Friend is no doubt aware, the Jamaican Defence Regulation corresponding to United Kingdom Regulation I8B has now been amended so as to conform exactly with the provisions of the United Kingdom Regulation. As regards the second part of the Question, my Noble Friend considers that the question whether this regulation should be amended so as to bring it into line with Regulation 393 of the United Kingdom Regulations is a matter which should be left to the discretion of the Governor, who has not recommended any change. As regards the third part of the Question, the amended regulations will allow any person detained between 16th March, 1941, and the date on which the new regulation came into force to have his case reconsidered in accordance with the new procedure and under the provisions of the new regulations.

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