§ 47. Mr. Swinglerasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware that further acts of interference with the freedom of assembly, involving the United National Independence Party, have occurred in the Eastern Province of Northern Rhodesia since 6th June; and if he will make further investigations with a view to ensuring that no restriction is placed on the lawful activities of any party.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodI assume that the hon. Member is referring to the refusal to allow the United National Independence Party to hold a meeting on 18th June. Permission had already been given to the African National Congress to hold a meeting on that day and the authorities had good reason to fear that the holding of both meetings on the same day would lead to a breach of the peace. As regards the second part of the Question, I have assured the House on several occasions recently that no restriction will be placed on the lawful activities of any political party in Northern Rhodesia.