§ 12. Sir R. HAMILTONasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been drawn to the recent trial of a European at Kumasi on a charge of murder, whether the trial was held without a jury; and whether it is contemplated amending the existing procedure for the trial of Europeans in Ashanti on a capital charge?
§ Mr. AMERYI have seen certain reports in the Press, and I have been informed by the Governor of the Gold Coast by telegram that a European was charged with murder, sentenced to death and in due course reprieved; but I have not received any detailed information. If the trial was held in Ashanti it would, in accordance with the provisions of the law of Ashanti, take place before a Judge alone without counsel or jury. As regards the last part of the question I am not yet in a position to discuss the question of altering the procedure.
§ Mr. J. H. THOMASDo I understand that the officer in question has been reprieved?
§ Sir R. HAMILTONHas the right hon. Gentleman considered the question of altering the existing procedure?
§ Mr. AMERYIt is a question on which there is a great deal to be said on both sides. We shall certainly go into it carefully.