Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is satisfied with the proposal in Northern Rhodesia to extend the death penalty to other crimes; and why the matter will be dealt with by regulation and not by special legislation.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydOn 29th September a railway train carrying 300 passengers was derailed in circumstances clearly indicating sabotage. This was the second derailment by deliberate sabotage in less than twelve months. On 30th September the Governor in exercise of the powers given to him by the Emergency Powers Orders in Council 1939 and 1956 declared a state of emergency along the whole length of the railway reserve in the territory, and made Emergency Regulations to deal with the situation. While the Emergency Regulations remain in force it will be an offence punishable 25W with death to sabotage, or attempt to sabotage, the railway line, railway engines or rolling stock, or to abet such an act.
I am satisfied that this was a proper provision to make for the protection of the public against the repetition of such acts.