§ 33. Mr. G. M. Thomsonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps he is taking to ensure freedom of newspapermen reporting the emergency in Nyasaland from threats of violence by the special police being employed in the Protectorate.
§ Mr. J. AmeryI have nothing to add to the reply given to the hon. Member on 12th March, 1959.
§ Mr. ThomsonIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there have been allegations of violence against journalists and allegations of unnecessary restrictions on their movements? Is he aware that the whole world is watching what we are doing in Nyasaland and that it is tremendously important for our own good name that journalists reporting the incidents there should have the fullest possible freedom to see what is being done?
§ Mr. AmeryWe are naturally anxious hat there should be good and objective reporting on what is going on. During 1510 the first 48 hours of the emergency, as the hon. Member will understand, the organisation and arrangements for looking after the Press had not been very highly developed. Having been a newspaperman myself in circumstances of that kind, I know how difficult it can sometimes be.
§ Mr. CallaghanIs it now possible for newspapermen to travel throughout the length and breadth of Nyasaland and get to the Northern Provinces and up to Nkata Bay?