§ MR. FELL (Great Yarmouth)I beg to ask the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies what is the present total population of the East Africa Protectorate, and of this population how many are white and how many are black or coloured; how many soldiers there are in the Protectorate; and how many of these are white men.
§ MR. CHURCHILLThe native population of the East Africa Protectorate is roughly estimated at four millions; the white population according to the latest return numbered 1,813, including 264 Government officials. There are no white troops in the Protectorate except 762 the Volunteer Reserve numbering 160 The number of native troops serving there, i.e., the 3rd and part of the 1st Battalion of the King's African Rifles, is about 1,200 with thirty white officers.
§ VISCOUNT TURNOURIn view of the figures given in the Answer, will steps be taken to increase the white force? Will the hon. Gentleman consider the possibility of getting a larger grant for the purpose?
§ MR. CHURCHILLWe are doing everything possible to reduce the expenditure.