HC Deb 26 April 1932 vol 265 cc215-6
44. Mr. E. WILLIAMS (for Dr. SALTER)

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the reason for the decision of the Government of Kenya Colony to put into force the Kenya Defence Force Ordinance of 1927?

Sir R. HAMILTON

I would invite reference to the reply returned by my right hon. Friend to a question on the subject from the hon. Member for Wolverhampton East (Mr. Mander) on 14th April, of which I am sending him a copy. The Kenya Defence Force Ordinance has been in operation since 2nd July, 1928.

63. Mr. WILLIAMS (for Dr. SALTER)

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can give any explanation of the reason for the passing of the Kenya Defence Force Ordinance without any provision enforcing an oath of allegiance to His Majesty?

Sir R. HAMILTON

As stated in the reply to a question on the 28th July, 1927, provision for an oath of allegiance was omitted from the Kenya Defence Force Ordinance on the representation of the Secretary of State's military advisers in this country that an oath had been regarded as inappropriate in many cases of compulsory military service, for example, service under the National Service Acts at home.