Postal Interception Orders

HC Deb 15 December 1954 vol 535 cc1747-8

52. Mr. Benn

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what postal censorship is in operation in Kenya.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

There is no postal censorship in Kenya. Under Section 23 of the East African Posts and Telecommunications Act, 1951, the Governor has power to issue postal interception orders in an emergency, or in the interest of public safety and tranquillity.

Mr. Benn

Will the right hon. Gentleman ask the Governor of Kenya to tell him how many postal interception orders are in operation, as I think both the Minister and the rest of the House would agree that, if these matters are pursued in this way, it is wise to keep some safeguards against their abuse?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Probably the less talk there is between the hon. Member and me on matters touching public security in this most important field, the better.