§ 30. Mr. J. Johnsonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware that Ordinance No. 1, 1959, issued at Hargeisa, Somaliland, on 5th March, gives power to any police officer not below the rank of assistant superintendent to enter any house or building where he has reason to believe that a meeting of an unlawful association is being held; 1510 and whether he will name the unlawful associations in respect of which this power has been used.
§ Mr. J. AmeryYes, Sir. So far as I am aware, this power has never been exercised, but I am awaiting confirmation from the Governor about this, and will write to the hon. Member as soon as I am able.
§ Mr. JohnsonHas the hon. Gentleman attempted to find out the state of Somali public opinion about a Measure like this, which is highly unpopular? He says that it has never been used, but in view of next year's close association of the British Somalis with the Italian Somalis, is it not rather pointless to pass legislation of this kind against unnamed associations—allegedly illegal associations? Is it not rather futile?
§ Mr. AmeryI have not heard of any strong reactions of public opinion, but that is not surprising, seeing that this power has never been exercised.