§ Mr. WEDGWOODasked the Undersecretary of State for the Colonies whether a Departmental Committee is considering changes in the system of land taxation in British East Africa; if so, of whom the Committee consists, who have been asked to give evidence before it, and when the Report is likely to be published?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Colonel Seely)A Committee, of which I am Chairman, consisting of four members of the Colonial Office, is considering certain questions connected with land tenure in East Africa. Formal evidence is not being taken by the Committee and no report of its proceedings will be published.
§ Mr. ASHLEYHave any representations come from East Africa expressing dissatisfaction with the present state of the law?
§ Colonel SEELYIt is in connection with representations of various kinds both for and against that we are holding this entirely informal inquiry similar to many inquiries constantly held by Government offices. I cannot say more at present.
§ Mr. WEDGWOODWill the House have an opportunity of discussing the Report of the Departmental Committee?
§ Colonel SEELYYes, there will be the fullest opportunity for discussing everything when the particular Vote for the Minister comes up for discussion. That occasion arises next Wednesday. I think it would be a mistake for the hon. Member to cry out before he is hurt.