HC Deb 26 June 1967 vol 749 cc28-9W
76. Mr. Chapman

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what action he is taking to protect the rights and liberty of James Milne Gaskell, a British citizen arrested on 10th June in St. Kitts, now transferred to Nevis gaol, and held without any trial or charge against him.

Mrs. Hart

Immediately he learned of the arrest of Mr. Gaskell the British Government Representative made sure he had been allowed to see his lawyer and pressed that Mr. Gaskell should be released or charged. Mr. Gaskell has now been given a statement of the grounds for his detention. The British Government Representative who was then in St. Kitts, visited Mr. Gaskell on 21st June and intended visiting again during the past two days. Mr. Gaskell is free to move about the prison yard until the evening: he can see his lawyer as often as he wishes; he can have what food he wishes, and order whatever paper he requires.

The British Government Representative has also been instructed to make clear to the Government of St. Kitts, Nevis and Anguilla their obligations in respect of the provision of information about any declaration of emergency and emergency regulations, including regulations under which Mr. Gaskell has been detained.

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