HC Deb 04 March 1947 vol 434 cc50-1W
Mr. Rees-Williams

asked the Secretary of State for War how many civilians were arrested as the result of disturbances in Eritrea between 28th July and 1st August, 1946; with what offences such civilians were charged; what punishments were awarded; and whether any persons are still awaiting trial.

Mr. Bellenger

Of the 57 civilians brought to trial 22 were acquitted. Eighteen were sentenced to terms of imprisonment as follow:

  • 1 to 12 months, reduced on appeal to 6 months and further reduced on clemency to 3 months
  • 6 to 12 months, reduced on clemency to 6 months.
  • 2 to 2 years, reduced on clemency to 9 months.
  • 3 to 3 years, reduced on clemency to 9 months.
  • 1 to 12 months, reduced on appeal to 9 months and further reduced on clemency to 4½ months.
  • 3 to 18 months, reduced on clemency to 9 months.
  • 1 to 6 months, reduced on appeal to 4 months.
  • 1 to 3 years, reduced on clemency to 15 months.

Eight persons were sentenced to 12 strokes of the whip and 1 to 10 strokes of the whip. Four persons were sentenced to reformatory. One person was sentenced to reformatory or 10 strokes of the whip and 2 to reformatory or 12 strokes. All those sentenced to corporal punishment were males under 18 years of age.

All the above were charged under Article 2 (L) of Proclamation 15 of 1945—"taking part in a public demonstration or assembly of a nature likely to endanger public security"—punishable with 5 years' imprisonment and/or 4,000 East African shillings—or if a male of not more than 18 years of age with 12 strokes of the whip.

In addition one person was charged with attempted homicide of a British Police Officer and sentenced to 7 years' imprisonment.

There are no persons still awaiting trial.