HC Deb 29 April 1959 vol 604 cc135-6W
Mr. Stonehouse

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many of the Nyasalanders detained under the Emergency Regulations and implicated in the events described in the Governor's despatch have received copies of the White Paper; and how many have been informed individually of their right to appear before the Devlin Commission.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

The White Paper reproduced the Governor's despatch of 18th March and the full text of this despatch appeared in the Nyasaland Information Bulletin of 25th March, which was sent in quantity to each holding centre for distribution to detainees. Detainees cannot appear before the Commission as of right; but they have been informed individually that they may submit memoranda and apply to appear before it. It will then be for the Commission in its discretion to invite any detainee to appear before it.

Mrs. Castle asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many of the 31 teachers arrested in Nyasaland under the state of emergency have been brought to trial; and how many have been dismissed from their posts.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

One teacher has been brought to trial; he was acquitted and released. None of the teachers arrested have been dismissed either by the Nyasaland Government or, as far as can be ascertained, by any other educational agency.