HC Deb 27 November 1958 vol 596 c537
22. Mr. J. Johnson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what action he has taken following the petition sent him by Achieng Oneko and his fellow-detainees in Takwa Special Detention Camp, Lamu, Kenya; and whether he intends to authorise a further screening of these remaining prisoners who were originally arrested on purely political grounds.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I have asked the Governor to advise the petitioners that I am unable to intervene.

With regard to the second part of the Question, the Governor has arranged for the Advisory Committee on Detainees to re-hear certain cases in which it advised rejection of the appeal some years back.

Mr. Johnson

Is not it a fact that neither Oneko nor hundreds of others in the camp had any connection with the beastly Mau Mau movement? They are not the hard core of physical and mental perverts who took part in the ancient initiation ceremonies, back in 1952 and onwards; they are politicos picked up in the street. Is it the intention to keep these men six years after this year without hope of expecting a second chance and of going home to their families?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I cannot accept what the hon. Gentleman has said about Oneko or the others concerned. Provisions are being made for a second appeal. I imagine that these would apply to Oneko, but I should have to confirm this with the Governor.