asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies on what grounds "The African and Colonial World," a monthly journal published in this country, has been banned in Kenya.

As the hon. Member is already aware, I have been in communication with the Governor of Kenya on this subject. He has prohibited the importation of this publication in the public interest, because of its subversive character. This is within the Governor's powers, and I do not propose to intervene.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this responsible journal has been sponsored by many hon. Members of this House? If European papers published in Kenya have the freedom to incite racialist subversion, why should there not be an opportunity for those who seek for inter-racial cooperation?

I am quite unaware of the circumstances in which the hon. Gentleman says that these newspapers are sponsored in some way by hon. Members of this House. I can only deal, and the Governor can only deal, with a newspaper as we find it. I would point to an article published in September, 1953, which contained entirely irresponsible and unconfirmed statements by alleged witnesses of atrocities said to have been committed by administrative officers and security forces. It is apparent—according to my advice—that the editors are prepared to print any malicious inventions or rumours that might suit their purpose.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that that statement is quite untrue?

On a point of order. The hon. Gentleman has alleged that a statement made by the Secretary of State for the Colonies is untrue. Is that not an improper observation?

A statement can be untrue without being intentionally so.