§ 41. Mr. Skinnardasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the regulations governing the meetings of Africans in Kenya to discuss their own racial problems; and why special difficulties have occurred in the Fort Hall and Nyeri Districts recently leading to a prohibition of such meetings.
§ Mr. Rees-WilliamsPublic assemblies in Kenya are regulated under Section 30 of the Police Ordinance of 1948, which is of general application. My right hon. Friend is not aware that any special difficulties have occurred recently, but he is asking the Governor for information and will write to my hon. Friend when he receives it.
§ Mr. SkinnardIn view of the urgent necessity of setting up suitable local administrations in which the African population are required to participate, would not my hon. Friend agree that the absolute banning of African peoples from discussing local affairs is regrettable?
§ Mr. Rees-WilliamsWell, it does not take place. The regulations in Kenya are on the same lines as in this country, and the African member, Mr. Mathu, whom my hon. Friend knows, expressed appreciation when this Ordinance went through.