§ 36. Mr. Fenner Brockwayasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies on what grounds prosecutions have recently 1389 been instituted against seven persons responsible for three newspapers in Uganda; and what were the sentences imposed.
§ Mr. HareThese persons have been charged under the Penal Code with printing and publishing seditious matter. Three have been convicted and awarded fines ranging from £50 to £250. The cases against the others are still sub judice.
§ Mr. BrockwayIn relation to the cases which are not sub judice, does the right hon. Gentleman not think, in view of the desire to begin afresh after the return of the Kabaka and the discussions now going on about constitutional changes, that it is a mistake to begin charges in the courts which interfere with the free expression of opinion?
§ Mr. HareThe hon. Member really knows that all these matters are within the discretion of the courts of Uganda. They are not within the discretion of the House of Commons. These were decided by the Uganda courts, and I do not think that there is any other comment I can make.