HC Deb 20 April 1955 vol 540 c171
25. Mrs. White

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what instructions have been given by the Government of Kenya concerning the establishment of tribal associations in Nairobi.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

None, Sir. Tribal associations have been in existence for many years and the Kenya Government have agreed to the recognition as they have applied for registration from time to time.

Mrs. White

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that trade union organisers in Nairobi have informed us that pressure was put by the Administration on Africans to join their tribal associations, and to avoid all other associations, including trade unions? Would he please look into the matter?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I have looked into it, and I wrote to the Governor about it when it was conveyed to me in a suggestion made by the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Wakefield (Mr. Creech Jones). I feel quite certain that the Kenya Government are not fostering the tribal associations to the detriment of the development of normal, healthy trade union activity. I will write to the right hon. Gentleman and the hon. Lady as soon as I have further information from the Governor.

Mr. Braine

In view of the importance of the new associations starting off on the right foot, can my right hon. Friend say whether it is obligatory on these societies to register under the Societies Ordinance of the Colony?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Yes, Sir, that is so.