HC Deb 16 July 1957 vol 573 cc932-3
14. Sir L. Plummer

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what reply has been given by the Government of Kenya and by the United Kingdom Government to the request of the Nairobi District African Congress that restrictions on African political meetings should be cancelled.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

This request has not yet been sent to me officially through the Governor, and I am unaware of the terms of any reply which may have been sent by the Kenya Government. But control of these meetings is essential to the maintenance of public order, and the Kenya Government have my full support for their present policy.

Sir L. Plummer

Is the Colonial Secretary aware that the restrictions amount virtually to a total ban on open-air meetings, and, in view of the necessity of listening to the political aspirations of the Africans, will he make representations to see whether the restrictions, if not abolished, can at least be further reduced?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

No, Sir, but I am very ready that the Governor should have a talk with the hon. Gentleman, and with any other hon. Members about this matter. It is not true that this restriction leads to a complete ban. For specific meetings in rural areas where no halls can be used, permission is given, if the authorities are satisfied that the local situation and the facilities for keeping public order are satisfactory. But I am not prepared to disregard the advice of those people on whom the blame would lie if disorder occurred.

Mr. J. Johnson

Can the Minister confirm that Mr. Tom Mboya and the elected members of the Legislative Council met the Governor on this very subject as far back as 10th June? Can he tell the House what answer was given to them on that occasion?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Yes. They were told what I have told the House—that, on certain conditions, open-air meetings in rural areas can be allowed. But those conditions must be fulfilled, and nobody can claim exemption from that obligation.