§ 29. Rear-Admiral BEAMISHasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will provide particulars as to the growth or otherwise of crimes committed against the person of white people in Kenya Colony; and if he is satisfied that the measures for the prevention of such crimes are adequate?
§ Mr. LUNNFigures are not available in this country to show the number of crimes against the person of white people in Kenya as distinct from those committed against other races. In the year 1928, however, the total number of serious offences against the person reported, under the heading Murder, Attempted Murder and Culpable Homicide in settled and urban areas was only 38. Of this number, 34 cases were brought for trial before Court and 23 resulted in convictions. The answer to the second part of the question is in the affirmative.
§ Rear-Admiral BEAMISHIs the hon. Gentleman aware that serious anxiety exists in the minds of the white population of the Kenya Colony in consequence of the constant recurrence of such crimes?
§ Colonel WEDGWOODIs the hon. Gentleman also aware that the women and children are in danger in Kenya to-day, just as in Johannesburg 30 years ago?
§ Mr. HOLFORD KNIGHTCan the hon. Gentleman assure us that there is no colour discrimination in the administration of justice in these territories?
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYHas the hon. Gentleman any evidence to show that there is actually any increase in crimes against white persons in these Colonies?
§ 30. Rear-Admiral BEAMISHasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can give information concerning the trial of the natives who murdered Mr. Kenyon in the Thompson Falls district of Kenya Colony; and whether he has received proposals for the introduction of a system of communal fines to check the increase of crime against the person?
§ Mr. LUNNA report on the circumstances of this case has been called for from the Governor of Kenya, but this has not yet been received. As regards the second part of the question, there is already a Collective Punishment Ordinance in Kenya, and I will send a copy of this to the hon. and gallant Member for his perusal if he so desires.