Organizing Intelligence: An Introduction to the 1955 Report on Colonial Security
Abstract This article introduces, places in historical context and publishes selected extracts from chapter one of the Report on Colonial Security, which deals specifically with intelligence organisation both in London and overseas. Written by General Sir Gerald Templer in 1955, the report (particularly the intelligence aspects) is significant for the following reasons: it highlights the centralized and colonial intelligence failures in a particularly frank and candid manner; it details channels of communication and liaison between London and the colonies which remain classified elsewhere; and it had a substantial impact on the subsequent reorganisation and reform of intelligence in Whitehall and across the British Empire.
British Counter-Insurgency in Kenya, 1952–56: Extension of Internal Security Policy or Prelude to Decolonisation?
Despite considerable post‐war planning, the British counter‐insurgency campaign in Kenya did not constitute a Colonial Office strategy for decolonisation. COIN in Kenya had one purpose: to re‐impose law and order, or British control. If for no other reason, this is demonstrated by the initial reluctance of the Colonial Office to intervene. Frequent re‐assessments and postponement of the ending of the State of Emergency, and the subordination of socio‐economic and political reforms to military objectives, show clearly that decolonisation was not high on the British list of priorities in Kenya. This article questions the relationship between COIN and decolonisation, and the validity of models of British counter‐insurgency.
Men who ruled Kenya : the Kenya administration, 1892-1963
This book is a study of the Kenyan Administrative Service from its establishment in 1892 until Kenya became independent in 1963. Uniquely in the British Empire, some areas of Kenya were considered to be "white man's country", and they attracted a mixed bag of settlers. Many worked hard to build up the territory and their farms, but some regarded Kenya as a rich man's playground - as so vividly portrayed in the book and film, "White Mischief". The Administrative Service's task was to ensure the colony's prosperity, largely through promoting efficient farming methods, and above all to safeguard the Kenyans' own interests. From its foundation it attracted colourful characters and even eccentrics. But all its members strove to reconcile a number of conflicting interests, to develop the territory and to ensure its prosperity. This common purpose continued right through to Kenya's independence, even during the bitterness and violence of Mau Mau.