§ Mr. T. E. HARVEYasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies, when the agreement was entered into by which the Masai are recognised as owning their two present reserves in British East Africa; whether a pledge was given then, or at any other time, by or on behalf of the British Government, that they should not be disturbed from these territories; and, if so, whether negotiations have been entered upon to 1056 transfer the Masai from their good northern lands to less desirable territory to the south; and whether he will take steps to prevent such removal?
Mr. HARCOURTIn accordance with the unanimous desire of the representatives of the northern section of the Masai tribe it has been decided to consolidate the two sections of the tribe in the southern portion of the Protectorate. A solemn and formal agreement abrogating the agreement of 1904, referred to by my hon. Friend, has been entered into between the Government of the East Africa Protectorate and the paramount Chief of all the Masai, his regents and the representatives of the Northern section, and has received my approval. The Papers which I propose to lay as soon as possible will show the nature of the arrangements made and the reasons for my action.
§ Mr. T. E. HARVEYWill the right hon. Gentleman delay the final approval until the House has had an opportunity of discussing the question?