§ 8. Mrs. Castleasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies why Mr. Kenneth Kaunda has been refused permits to hold meetings in the Northern Province of Northern Rhodesia; and why the United National Independence Party has been refused permission to re-register its branches in Abercorn and Kasama.
§ Mr. H. FraserMr. Kaunda made a tour of the Northern Provinces in October and again in November. The granting of permits for particular meetings is, however, a matter for the local authority in the district concerned, and I have asked the Governor about any recent refusals of permits to him.
As regards re-registration of U.N.I.P. branches, the Governor's announcement on 1st November of the 1508 revocation of the general order declaring these branches unlawful in certain Provinces explained that all such branches were now eligible to reapply for registration and each application would be considered on its merits. I have asked the Governor about the two branches mentioned, and will write to the hon. Member when I have his reply.
§ Mrs. CastleI thank the Under-Secretary very warmly for that reply. Is he aware that the facts stated in my Question were based on letters and telegrams I have received from Mr. Kenneth Kaunda's right-hand man in the Northern Province? Does he agree that Mr. Kaunda is an outstanding and moderate African leader who has constantly preached non-violence and that every facility should be given to him in the Northern Province for him to conduct his propaganda and build his organisation?
§ Mr. FraserI have a warm personal regard for Mr. Kaunda, but I must await the official reply from the Governor.