§ 56. Mr. Fenner Brockwayasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many Africans in Kenya have been sentenced to capital punishment during the last 12 months; how many of these sentences have been carried out; and on what charges these Africans have been sentenced.
§ Mr. LytteltonFive hundred and sixty-six and 289, respectively, in the 12 months up to 30th April. The charges were:
| Murder | 268 |
| Unlawful possession of arms, ammunition and explosives | 204 |
| Consorting with terrorists | 58 |
| Administering unlawful oaths | 27 |
| Acting with intent to further terrorism | 9 |
§ Mr. BrockwayMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he is aware of the great disquiet regarding these death 1279 sentences, whether he has seen the leading article in "The Times" of 6th May on this matter, and whether there have not been cases in which influence has brought about the release of certain men, while other men in exactly the same circumstances have been sentenced to death?
§ Mr. LytteltonI do not accept in any way the last part of the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question implying that certain influences are at work. Of course, the prerogative of mercy has been used, and certain appeals have been allowed, but this has nothing to do with influence. With regard to the first part of the supplementary question, what is deplorable is that there have been so many cases of breaking the law.