§ 39. Mr. Callaghanasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies why permission was refused to Mr. Orton Chirwa, the Nyasaland barrister, who is in detention, to return to his office to enable him to return case papers and documents to his clients.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydPermission was not refused.
On the contrary, specific instructions were given to the police officer detailed to arrest Mr. Chirwa to ask him whether he had any documents, briefs or other papers relating to his practice of which he wished to dispose. This was done and Mr. Chirwa told the police officer that he had none.
The escorting officer who was with Mr. Chirwa from the time of his arrest to the time of his departure by air has also confirmed that at no time did Mr. Chirwa ask to return to his office for any such purpose.
§ Mr. CallaghanI am very glad to have that assurance. Is the Colonial Secretary aware that these complaints were made specifically to the new legal organisation called "Justice ", either by Mr. Chirwa himself or on his behalf, and that the organisation has asked that these inquiries should be made by the Colonial Secretary? In view of what he has said, it is clear that the matter must be pursued further.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI can only infer from that that the hon. Member is suggesting that he does not think that what I said is accurate. I have given an answer with a full sense of my responsibility and that of the Governor. It is not for me 1088 to comment upon the accuracy or otherwise of information given to outside people. I speak for myself and for the Governor of the Territory.
§ Mr. CallaghanIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the only inference I am drawing is that if this information is passed on by a reputable body like "Justice" and the Colonial Secretary emphatically denies it. further inquiries must be made.