Corpun file 19438

The Times, London, 7 August 1961

Alleged caning of African nurses

From our Correspondent

Durban, Aug. 6

Eleven African student nurses at King George V hospital at Durban are alleged to have been caned by a white woman member of the hospital staff and this is said to have precipitated a stoppage of work by all non-white nursing staff and other employees.

About 300 nurses, student nurses and labourers were involved in the walkout, which lasted for eight hours during which time the hospital work was almost at a standstill. The staff are also boycotting meals in protest against the quality of food.

A statement by the Durban non-white hospital workers' union alleges that the student nurses were caned in the hospital grounds after they had left the lecture room because they were "not bright enough in their studies".

The hospital authorities, who are conducting an investigation, say that they are precluded by Government regulations from making any statement to the press.