§ Mr. Awberyasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what was the cause of the recent strike of the employees of the United Africa Company in Nigeria; why were the officials of the men's union imprisoned; and what is being done to assist in building up a healthy democratic trade union in this part of Africa.
Mr. DugdaleThese employees came out on strike early in August in support of demands for various improvements in conditions. The demands have been referred to arbitration. I understand that 23 union members were charged with incitement to violence and other offences against public order, but' as my right hon. Friend is not at present informed of the final outcome, he is asking the Governor to telegraph the exact position. The Governor and my right hon. Friend are equally anxious to assist in the development of healthy trade unions, and with the help of the industrial relations experts who visited Nigeria this summer a full review of the situation is at present in progress.