HC Deb 08 March 1926 vol 192 cc1888-9
21. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, with regard to Sir Edward Grigg's statement that he approved the principle of appointing settlers as resident magistrates in Kenya, he will say whether he intends to allow this change in the judicial system of the Colony?

Mr. AMERY

I shall await the recommendations of the Governor before forming any opinion on this matter, which, as I understand it, concerns only the magisterial powers of Justices of the Peace in petty cases.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the inadvisability of making the settlers judges in cases where they themselves are directly concerned?

Sir ROBERT HAMILTON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the petty cases to which he refers are very largely labour cases, and would naturally come before the resident magistrates?

Mr. AMERY

I prefer not to express an opinion until I see the Governor's report.