HC Deb 23 January 1957 vol 563 cc168-9
32. Mr. Hale

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies to make a statement on the disturbance in the Manyani detention camp in Kenya in December, 1954, or January, 1955, giving full details of casualties involved.

Mr. Maclay

On 12th January, 1955, 500 detainees in the compound of Manyani detention camp started a not during an attempt by members of the prison staff to locate two suspected murderers in the compound. In order to restrain the rioters the detainees had to be confined to their huts and force had to be used. One detainee was admitted to hospital with a broken arm, two with minor leg injuries and seven suffering from bruises. An investigation into the incident was ordered by the Commissioner of Prisons who as a result was satisfied that no more force was used than was necessary in the circumstances.

Mr. Hale

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that most of these investigations appear to be conducted by persons who have a direct interest in the matter and who themselves have a certain measure of responsibility? Will he also bear in mind that a very serious disturbance in a prison camp in Kenya appears to have taken place at a time when his right hon. Friend was reporting to the House about events in Kenya, and yet, so far as I have been able to trace, no mention was made of it? Why has it been concealed up to now, and why is it that it is only now possible to put Questions following the revelations made in Peace News?

Mr. Maclay

I really cannot say, without consultation with my right hon. Friend, why certain things were or were not in a statement which he made some time ago. I understand that this is the first Question which has been asked on the matter, and it has been answered.

Mr. Hale

Is the right hon. Gentleman telling us that the answers which he is giving are being made without any consultation with his right hon. Friend? If so, who has drafted the answers, who is responsible for them, and in whose voice is he now speaking to the House?

Mr. Maclay

I am speaking in the name of the Secretary of State for the Colonies.