HC Deb 07 February 1961 vol 634 cc195-6
14. Sir A. Hurd

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if, in view of the present election tension in Kenya and the fears of political intimidation, he will renew the assurances given by Her Majesty's Government to people of all races in Kenya that the police will be maintained at full strength and will have the support of the armed forces of the Crown in maintaining law and order in the Colony during the election period and for as long afterwards as the Governor considers necessary during the stages of constitutional advance to responsible government.

Mr. Iain Macleod

Yes, Sir. I renew those assurances now. But I am satisfied that the Governor is adequately equipped to deal effectively with threats to law and order and he will, I know, not hesitate to act promptly at any time should the need arise.

Sir A. Hurd

Will my right hon. Friend tell the Governor that many of us are watching anxiously, and still with some hope, what is happening in Kenya? Will he tell the Governor also that we want him to have all the resources that he needs to deal firmly with disorder, such as any possible uprising of Mau Mau, and with political intimidation wherever carried out and whatever may be the colour of the skin? Will my right hon. Friend give the Governor assurances of full support from this House?

Mr. Macleod

Yes, indeed. In answer to the middle part of my hon. Friend's supplementary question, I have been closely in touch with the Governor on this matter. I am entirely satisfied that the police force is strong enough to deal with any ordinary threat to law and order, and that all the powers he will need are available to him.

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