HC Deb 10 December 1952 vol 509 cc444-5
20. Sir R. Acland

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has considered the protests by defence counsel in important trials in Kenya against the lack of proper facilities for the defence; and what action he has taken thereon.

Mr. Lyttelton

I have received no such protests. But on Monday last the Governor reported that apart from an application, which the Supreme Court of Kenya rejected, for the case to be heard in Nairobi, Mr. Pritt had made only one protest about lack of facilities and had said that he was satisfied with the arrangements made as a result of that protest.

Sir R. Acland

As the inquiry is being held in what can properly be described as a kind of bush outpost, is it not self-evident that defence counsel cannot possibly have the facilities which counsel ought to have for conducting a trial of this kind? Is it not right that, as "The Times" said today, the eyes of the world are upon us in this sort of thing?

Mr. Lyttelton

The views of the hon. Baronet are not shared by Mr. Pritt.

Sir R. Acland

But Mr. Pritt has protested against this place being used.

Mr. Lyttelton

Mr. Pritt said he was satisfied with the arrangements which have been made as a result of his protest. That was the only protest which has been received. The reason why the trial is being held in a remote part instead of in Nairobi is fear of intimidation of the witnesses.