HC Deb 02 May 1927 vol 205 c1254
19. Mr. KELLY

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if his attention has been called to the position in Kenya Colony, where Africans are flogged or fined for refusing to undertake transport work; and will he take steps to abolish such punishment or such forced labour?

Mr. AMERY

Calling out paid labour, on defined conditions, for the transport of urgent Government stores is included in the powers of headmen under the Native Authority Ordinance, and failure, without lawful excuse, to comply with the orders of a headman, under the Ordinance, is punishable with fine or imprisonment in default of payment. I am not aware that the power under the general provisions of the Criminal Procedure Ordinance of substituting whipping for fine has ever been used in such cases. I see no reason to abolish the liability of natives to this form of public service.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Would it not be possible for the right hon. Gentleman to communicate these articles to the Government in Kenya and suggest an inquiry into the particular allegations, which have shocked the whole House?

Mr. AMERY

I will certainly discuss that with the Governor.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Archdeacon states in his articles that he reported these actual cases of flogging to the authorities at the time?

Mr. AMERY

I have no information on that point.